This non-profit that started in 1981 as a “rural experiment in food banking” has grown to become the largest hunger-relief organization in central and western Virginia. With a service area that covers about a third of the state, the Food Bank is one of seven food banks in Virginia and a partner food bank of Feeding America. 

As a community food bank, they rely on generous community support to meet their mission. In fact, the Food Bank family includes hundreds of partners, more than a thousand active volunteers, and thousands of food and financial donors, in addition to a cadre of passionate staff.

Loaves & Fishes provides nourishing food with respect and dignity to all who seek assistance, while offering robust opportunities for community engagement through volunteerism, partnerships, and nutrition education.

PACEM (People And Congregations Engaged in Ministry) is a grassroots organization that collaborates with 80 local congregations and community groups, along with 3,000 volunteers, to offer shelter and support services for the homeless. During the winter, PACEM provides a warm, safe shelter, meals, and companionship for vulnerable community members. Additionally, the organization helps guests transition to permanent housing through intensive case management and specialized services.

The Haven endeavors to end homelessness in the greater Charlottesville area. Motivated by radical hospitality, we strive to be the point of entry for people seeking stable housing. We open the doors wide for any and everyone, no matter their circumstances. Every day, our trained staff and dedicated community volunteers come together, working side by side to make homelessness rare, brief, and nonrecurring for our neighbors.

Since 1973, the Emergency Food Network has provided food for three days of balanced meals to individuals and families in Charlottesville and Albemarle County, operating on an honor system without financial requirements or forms. The organization has grown to support local nonprofits by providing food assistance, such as grocery gift cards, bulk items, and meal support, allowing these organizations to focus on their core missions. With a working board of 23 people and over 100 volunteers, the network operates with minimal expenses, ensuring that 90 cents of every dollar donated goes directly to services. The organization relies entirely on donations from individuals, schools, businesses, churches, and civic groups, with no government funding.