In 2019, Food Well Alliance and Westside Future Fund partnered to purchase and revitalize 970 Jefferson St. NW, the historic site of the Atlanta Community Food Bank. Bill Bolling and John Ahmann played pivotal roles in making this acquisition a reality, turning a shared vision into a success. The two organizations collaborate on managing the facility, with Food Well Alliance overseeing the warehouse and upstairs space, while Westside Future Fund is responsible for maintaining the rest of the building.
Today, 19 nonprofits and local enterprises utilize 970 Jefferson, operating from this revitalized space to collectively contribute to the betterment of the Westside community and beyond, embodying the shared vision that inspired the partnership. We’ve launched a new series, the 970 Partner Spotlight, to highlight each of these incredible organizations and their work. One of these integral partners is Urban Recipe, a long-standing Atlanta nonprofit with an innovative food cooperative model serving families across the metro area.
A Unique Approach to Food Security
Founded in 1991, Urban Recipe operates food cooperatives that are more than just a means of addressing food insecurity — they are a platform for building community and purpose.
“People become active members of their solution to food insecurity,” said Manda Shankel, Director of Development at Urban Recipe. Members participate in sorting and distributing food, creating a sense of ownership and belonging.
Urban Recipe’s 10 food co-ops across Atlanta bring members together to not only share food but also form lasting relationships.
“They celebrate birthdays, mourn losses and help each other with childcare or doctor’s appointments,” said Shankel. These co-ops serve as second families for their members.
Urban Recipe’s Cooperative Pathway Program, launched in 2023, is a testament to its commitment to expanding its impact. The program trains partner organizations to manage their own food cooperatives while Urban Recipe provides logistical support, from supporting launch to procuring and delivering food. This initiative has already led to the establishment of three new co-ops in underserved communities.
Thriving at 970 Jefferson
Urban Recipe’s move to 970 Jefferson in 2020 marked a significant turning point. Transitioning from a church basement to this collaborative nonprofit hub allowed the organization to scale its operations and deepen its impact. The shared refrigeration, freezer and warehouse space have been invaluable for Urban Recipe’s programs, particularly during the pandemic, when the organization launched a mobile pantry to reach those unable to attend co-op meetings.
Being part of the 970 Jefferson community has also facilitated partnerships with like-minded organizations. For example, Urban Recipe collaborates with Second Helpings and Food Well Alliance, both based at 970 Jefferson, to secure and distribute fresh produce.
“The natural overlaps and conversations in this shared space often lead to greater efficiencies and strategic collaborations,” said Shankel.
Serving the Historic Westside
Urban Recipe is deeply embedded in the Historic Westside community, with two of its food co-ops operating directly from the 970 Jefferson warehouse. These co-ops serve approximately 80 families, distributing over 124,000 pounds of food last year — a meal value exceeding $500,000. This support not only alleviates food insecurity but also frees up resources for families to invest in housing, transportation, and other essential needs.
As Urban Recipe continues to expand its Cooperative Pathway Program and strengthen its community-based model, its presence at 970 Jefferson remains pivotal.
“Being in this collaborative space connects us to new opportunities and partnerships, amplifying the impact of our work,” said Shankel.
Urban Recipe’s innovative approach and its role at 970 Jefferson illustrate the power of community-driven solutions to address food insecurity. Learn more about Urban Recipe and the collaborative efforts at 970 Jefferson at 970Jefferson.org.