In metro Atlanta, food pantries are working hard to support families this holiday season. Two vital organizations, Dreamz Always Come True and the Atlanta Community Food Bank, are at the forefront of this effort.
Last week, the Atlanta Community Food Bank invited journalists to volunteer at its new pantry in Adamsville, revealing the urgent demand for food assistance in this area. Opened in August, the Adamsville pantry serves around 1,000 households weekly, with around 10,000 pounds of food passing through its doors every day, according to Kyle Waide, the Food Bank’s CEO. Their goal? Distributing 10 million meals during the holidays, helped by devoted volunteers and generous donors.
At the Adamsville pantry, visitors can find a mix of fresh produce, dairy, and frozen items, along with nonperishable goods. This diverse selection aims to promote healthier eating. On the day of the media event, many residents, including numerous seniors, lined up for the food. Volunteers from local media outlets assisted in distributing items like frozen turkeys and hams.
“We support around 700 partners across 29 counties,” Waide explained. “In areas lacking those partners, we step in to run pantries ourselves, like this one in Adamsville. It’s crucial for communities with high need.”
The Food Bank also has centers in Marietta, Jonesboro, and Stone Mountain. Food insecurity has significantly increased, with a 70% rise in the past three years, driven mainly by inflation. The demand surged even more during the federal shutdown. To address this, the organization recently allocated $5 million from its reserves, bolstered by community donations.
Meanwhile, in Sandy Springs, Dreamz Always Come True is gearing up for its annual Thanksgiving dinner. Founder Melinda Terry has hosted this event for ten years, providing a hot meal to families in need. This year, the feast will feature turkey, ham, and a variety of sides. Since 2022, families have also taken home frozen turkeys and nonperishable foods.
Last year, 150 people attended the dinner. Terry, a single mother when she began this initiative, knows firsthand the struggles families face. “I understand what it’s like to work hard and still fall short,” she said. “I’m just happy to help.” The dinner will take place this Sunday from 2 to 4:30 p.m. at the Dreamz Community Center in Sandy Springs.
Food insecurity remains a significant issue across the U.S. According to a 2022 report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, approximately 10.5% of American households were food insecure at some point during the year. This statistic highlights the importance of local initiatives that provide immediate support to those in need.
Both the Atlanta Community Food Bank and Dreamz Always Come True exemplify the power of community action, especially during tough times like the holidays. Their efforts remind us that helping one another can make a real difference.
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Atlanta Community Food Bank,food insecurity,hunger,Thanksgiving
