On January 21, 2026, the Sioux Honey Co-op and Smoothie King made a significant contribution to food security in Atlanta by donating 6,480 bottles of honey to Second Helpings Atlanta. This donation, weighing nearly 4,860 pounds, is part of an initiative to support families in need throughout the area, emphasizing the importance of nutritious food during challenging economic times.
The honey, specifically Sue Bee® Clover Honey, will be distributed by Second Helpings Atlanta, a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing surplus food and delivering it to those in need. Sioux Honey, which consists of over 200 beekeeper families across the United States, collaborated with Smoothie King to provide this substantial donation as part of its ongoing “Sharing Sweetness” campaign. To date, Sioux Honey has donated over 75,000 bottles of honey to various food banks and rescue groups.
Addressing Food Insecurity in Atlanta
According to Paul Clements, executive director of Second Helpings Atlanta, food insecurity rates in several counties around the city meet or surpass the national average of approximately 14.3%, particularly affecting children and communities of color. Clements noted that inflation and rising food prices have resulted in a record demand for food assistance, highlighting the significance of donations like this one.
“Honey’s long shelf life and versatility make it an ideal food item for those facing food insecurity,” Clements remarked. He mentioned that the organization has delivered over 32.6 million pounds of food since its inception in 2004, underlining the importance of community support in addressing these pressing issues.
The health benefits associated with honey, which include antioxidant properties and soothing effects on coughs and sore throats, add to its appeal, particularly in food aid services. Lori Primavera, Vice President of Research and Development at Smoothie King, emphasized their commitment to quality ingredients, stating, “Honey is one of those simple ingredients that consumers trust and love for both its delicious taste and nutritional benefits.”
Support for Local Farmers and Sustainable Practices
The donation also serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by Georgia’s agriculture sector. With an industry valued at $83.4 billion, nearly 40% of produce from local farmers goes uneaten due to market conditions and labor shortages. Second Helpings Atlanta’s “Field to Fork” program assists farmers by offering fair compensation for their crops, which are then distributed to families in need.
Clements mentioned that the program has rescued over one million pounds of fresh produce, equating to approximately 833,000 meals. This initiative not only aids those facing hunger but also supports local farmers who struggle to sell their products.
Sioux Honey Co-op’s commitment to sustainable practices is underscored by its U.S. Farmed™ certification from the American Farmland Trust. Beth Love, marketing manager at Sioux Honey, noted the responsibility that comes with producing a significant portion of America’s commercial honey harvest. “We take seriously our role in giving back to communities by sharing sweetness in meaningful ways,” Love stated.
The donation of honey on January 21 is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Sioux Honey, Smoothie King, and Second Helpings Atlanta to combat food insecurity and support local farmers. As food aid demands continue to rise, such partnerships will be crucial in ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the nutrition they need.
