Cobb EMC Foundation_KO

Bagel Rescue

Since its founding in 2020, Bagel Rescue has rescued over 3.7 million bagels, breads, and pastries, turning surplus food into 25,000 meals weekly for those in need.

FOOD INSECURITY

Reducing Food Waste and Supporting Hunger Relief 

Founded in Atlanta by Erin Stieglitz, the organization connects unsold baked goods from local bakeries with more than 200 partner agencies, including shelters, food pantries, and youth programs.

Bagel Rescue’s mission is powered by a dedicated network of volunteers and strong community partnerships. With grant funding from the Cobb EMC Foundation, the organization installed a crucial freezer at St. Catherine’s Episcopal Church in East Cobb, significantly increasing storage capacity, streamlining deliveries, and enabling new partnerships to reach even more neighbors in need.

The Cobb EMC Foundation further demonstrated their commitment by serving as the top sponsor of Bagel Rescue’s 5-Year Anniversary Celebration last year, where guests worked together to package over 36,000 bagels for the community.

While serving 12 counties in Metro Atlanta through partnerships with organizations like the Atlanta Community Food Bank and Feed Marietta, Bagel Rescue has expanded its reach across the Southeast by helping to prevent food waste and support hunger relief for even more communities in need.

Bagel Rescue Volunteers
Bagel Rescue Logo
CEMC_Square Texture
Bagel Rescue Bagel

Bagels, Breads, and Pastries Rescued Since Inception

Bagel Rescue Chef Hat and Whisk

Partner Agencies Receiving Donations

Bagel Rescue Bakery

Bagel Shop and Bakery Donors

Bagel Rescue Delivery

Meals Donated Yearly

Bagel Rescue-Erin

"Thanks to Cobb EMC Foundation’s support, Bagel Rescue has been able to fight hunger and reduce food waste more effectively. Their partnership has strengthened our ability to serve the community, which helps us reach more people in need and make a greater impact. We are deeply grateful for their commitment to supporting our work and the lives of those it touches."

Erin Stieglitz

Founder, Chief Rescue Officer
Bagel Rescue

Bagel Rescue and Cobb EMC
Bagel Rescue and Cobb EMC
In 2025, Board members from Cobb EMC and the Cobb EMC Foundation partnered with Bagel Rescue to prepare sandwiches for our neighbors in Cobb County facing food insecurity. These meals were delivered to The Extension, The Zone, and Sheltering Arms, providing comfort and nourishment to those who need it most. We’re grateful for the opportunity to give back and proud to serve the community we call home.