SAVANNAH, Ga. () — Time is ticking for a long-standing local charity that needs your help.
A Pooler food pantry has just weeks left before they have to vacate its current space.
looks into how they’re at risk of stopping services that serve hundreds of people.

“Backpack Buddies” has been the backbone of support in Pooler for more than 15 years, feeding families and ensuring kids don’t go hungry over the weekend.

The Pooler food pantry and Backpack Buddies serve up to 500 people a month, including seniors, families, and nearly 200 children each week. After two and a half years in a local church, they’ve been given a 90-day’ notice to vacate and now urgently need 1500 to 2,000 square feet of space – preferably – in old Pooler.

The Pooler Lions Club, which helps supply clothing and refrigerators, also needs space alongside them. If they don’t find a new location by May 31st, many in the community could go without the food they depend on.

“I think it’s really easy just to look in your own situation that you don’t need this food and maybe your neighbors don’t. But so many kids and people need food. People walk to this food pantry, they ride their bikes, and they are desperate need of help because it’s expensive today to just live,” said Joy Turner, the Director of Backpack Buddies.

“These people… there’s a need. And if we don’t find this home, place, anything… we have been driving around for weeks now trying to find any place,” shared Bonnie O’Leary, the Volunteer Coordinator.

The charity is now asking the community – if you know a space or have any tips, call (912) 484–1508. You can also visit here to learn more.

For the last 15 years, the food pantry has never stopped serving – and with the right support, they can continue to do that.

Fast Facts:

• Know a space? They need 1,500–2,000 square feet in the Old Pooler area
• Call 912-484-1508 if you can help or know someone who can.
• Visit their website to donate or learn more — they’re a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.