Kim Lawkis Named CEO of Feeding Alabama
The veteran non-profit leader stepped into the top role on October 1 to oversee the state network's food distribution efforts.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Organic Food
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Kim Lawkis has taken over as the new CEO of Feeding Alabama, succeeding former leader Laura Lester. She now leads a network representing eight food banks that serve all 67 Alabama counties.
Why it matters
Lawkis assumes leadership as the state faces increased demand for charitable food assistance driven by high grocery costs and recent changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
The Feeding Alabama network distributed 90 million pounds of food through 1,200 partner agencies last fiscal year. Approximately 80,000 Alabamians have exited the SNAP program over the past year.
The players
Kim Lawkis
She is the new CEO of Feeding Alabama who previously worked for Feeding the Gulf Coast.
Laura Lester
She is the former CEO of Feeding Alabama who was succeeded by Kim Lawkis.
Feeding Alabama
This is a statewide network of eight food banks that distributes resources to over 1,200 partner agencies.
The details
Feeding Alabama relies on a complex logistics system involving trucks and warehouses to reach residents across the state, where 40% of the population resides in rural areas. The organization prepares for continued high demand through 2027 as families navigate persistent affordability concerns.
Timeline
Kim Lawkis became CEO of Feeding Alabama on Oct. 1, 2026.
Increased demand for food banks is expected to continue throughout 2027.
The state faces a new $174 million annual SNAP obligation starting in October 2027.
Culture Shift
The transition in leadership at Feeding Alabama reflects a broader societal move toward increased reliance on private charitable networks for basic nutrition. This shift follows the reduction in public SNAP benefits that currently impacts food access for thousands of Alabama residents.
Residents struggling with grocery affordability may see shifts in how local partner agencies manage food distribution under the new leadership. Families should check their local agency requirements as demand for services continues to rise throughout the state.
The takeaway
The appointment of Lawkis highlights the growing complexity of maintaining food security for Alabamians in rural areas. Families facing rising costs should investigate local food bank resources early to understand availability in their specific county.
What happens next
The state is scheduled to begin an annual $174 million payment toward SNAP benefits in October 2027, provided no waiver is approved.
Further reading
Learn more about local food security efforts in the Organic Food section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Al.
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