'We waited in line a good hour': Hundreds of people turn out for food drive in Macon

MACON, Ga. — If you were traveling on Coliseum Drive around midday Thursday, you probably saw the traffic jam. It's because the Middle Georgia Community Food Bank and community groups gave out free food to hundreds of families.

Hundreds of people came out to the Macon Centreplex Thursday for a helping hand. 13WMAZ spoke to a woman who says this food is coming at a great time, during a time of need. 

"30,000? I know if I get in line, I will get me something," Phyliss Brisby said. 

Hundreds of cars lined up for miles Thursday, backing up traffic with everyone in need of a free meal. 

"Oh, we waited in line a good hour," Brisby said.

Board Chairman of the Middle Georgia Community Food Bank Jeff Battcher says the COVID-19 pandemic has tripled the need for food in Central Georgia.

"About a week ago, this all kind of came together with the help of the Bibb County Sheriff's Department, several faith-based communities have come with volunteers, United Way has been extremely helpful," Battcher said. 

Battcher says 50 volunteers braved the heat hoping to help 900 families. 

"The meals that we're giving should last families about a week, they are getting meat, produce, potatoes, oranges, and those things," Battcher said. 

"We definitely need extra food to come into the household," Brisby said. 

Brisby says at a time where grocery shelves are bare, this food will ensure her family has an Easter meal. 

"It is going to help me a whole lot because I'm by myself, but when I do cook, I try to share it with somebody who wants something," Brisby said. 

You can stay up to date with the latest updates on food drives by following the food bank's Facebook page. 

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