Georgia Food Bank Feeds Retired Elephants with Volunteers

Retired elephants at Elephant Refuge North America in Attapulgus, Georgia, now have a steady supply of fresh fruits and vegetables thanks to a creative partnership between a local food bank and elephant advocates.

Second Harvest of South Georgia has joined forces with Elephant Aid International to ensure the refuge's elephants receive the nutritious produce they need. The program relies on community volunteers willing to make a short Friday afternoon drive to help these magnificent animals.

The setup is simple and volunteer-friendly. Every Friday between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., volunteers pick up boxed produce at Second Harvest's Thomasville location, already loaded by staff into their vehicles. From there, it's a quick trip to deliver the food to the elephant refuge in Attapulgus.

Fresh fruits and vegetables play a vital role in keeping elephants healthy and thriving. The refuge provides a peaceful retirement home for elephants who spent years in captivity or working conditions.

Carol Buckley, founder and CEO of Elephant Aid International, sees this partnership as a win for everyone involved. "This partnership creates an easy but powerful way for the community to help care for the elephants," she said. "Just a short drive and a little time each week can help ensure they receive the fresh, healthy food they need to thrive."

The Ripple Effect

This partnership does more than feed elephants. It transforms surplus produce that might otherwise go to waste into nourishment for animals in need. The program also gives everyday people a meaningful way to contribute to wildlife conservation without requiring special skills or training.

Elephant Aid International works globally to improve elephant welfare, from unchaining captive elephants in Asia to teaching humane handling methods. The North American refuge represents the organization's commitment to providing rescued elephants a dignified retirement.

Community members interested in volunteering can contact Elephant Aid International at 229-465-3115 or email Suzanne@elephantaidinternational.org. Sometimes the biggest impact comes from the smallest gesture, like delivering a truckload of fresh vegetables to creatures who deserve a peaceful life.