Who We Are
The Rainbow Pantry of Royston, GA, is a nonprofit organization that provides food assistance to those in need. We are staffed entirely by local volunteers and have been serving our community since June 25, 1987.
Our goal is simple: No one in our community has to go without food.
When We Are Open
We are open for food distribution at 9:00 a.m. on the second and fourth Tuesday of every month. We remain open until we have distributed all of the food available for that day.
Each household is allowed one regular food distribution per month.
Emergency Assistance
If you are experiencing an emergency situation that cannot wait until our normal distribution times, please call 706-680-2202 or 706-680-0897.
We will make special arrangements for a volunteer to meet you at the Rainbow Pantry and provide food assistance to help you through the emergency.
Where Our Food Comes From
The food we distribute comes from several sources. Much of it is generously donated by local churches, businesses, and individuals who support our mission and our community.
We also obtain food through the USDA's Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). TEFAP is a federally funded program that provides food to local food pantries and other emergency food organizations for distribution to eligible households.
Who Can Receive Food Assistance?
Food provided through USDA (TEFAP) programs is available to eligible households throughout the state of Georgia.
Food that is donated locally or obtained through other local sources is intended to serve residents within the Rainbow Pantry's local service area.
Households residing outside our local service area will receive USDA food only.
Our Local Service Area
The Rainbow Pantry provides locally donated food to residents in the following areas:
Elbert County
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30624 — Bowman
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30634 — Bowman side of Dewy Rose
Madison County
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30633 — Royston side of Danielsville
Hart County
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30516 — Bowersville
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30520 — Canon
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30634 — Dewy Rose
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30643 — Hartwell
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30662 — Royston
Franklin County
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30662 — Royston
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30553 — Lavonia
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30521 — Carnesville — Sandy Cross
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30557 — Lavonia side of Martin
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30639 — Franklin Springs
USDA — TEFAP Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for food distributed through the USDA Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), households must:
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Live in the state of Georgia.
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Meet the current household-income guidelines established by the TEFAP program.
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Complete the required TEFAP eligibility form.
Applicants must fill out the form in person.
Exceptions may be approved in hardship cases, such as when an individual is bedridden or physically unable to travel to the Pantry.
In these situations, please contact the Pantry in advance. A photo ID for the individual receiving assistance may be requested to verify their identity.
Other Services
In addition to providing food assistance, the Rainbow Pantry maintains a small supply of medical equipment and supplies for those who may need them.
Items may include crutches, walkers, and similar equipment, depending on what has been donated and is currently available.
Clothing Donations
The Rainbow Pantry no longer accepts clothing for distribution inside the Pantry. However, clothing donations may be placed in the metal “America's Thrift Stores” collection bins located outside the Pantry.
Proceeds from these donations help support the Rainbow Pantry and its mission of providing assistance to those in need.