It’s Hunger Action Month. Here’s HOPE Atlanta’s vision for tackling homelessness and hunger holistically.

For far too many of our neighbors, the choice between paying rent or putting food on the table is a constant, agonizing decision. The situation has only worsened with the ripple effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and rising inflation rates. In Georgia today, 1 in 9 people face hunger, and 1 in 8 of them are children.

It’s not just the economic climate causing concern. The recent federal debt ceiling deal has introduced new challenges to those relying on SNAP benefits, leaving many families in limbo. About 25% of Atlantans live in food deserts, making it difficult to access fresh and healthy food — a necessity for everyone, particularly kids and people with health conditions.

HOPE Atlanta has a vision for providing food and other basic needs to every client facing homelessness and housing insecurity, with meals that suit their individual needs, so they can focus on reclaiming their self-sufficiency and livelihoods — not which essentials to cut from the budget.

Empowering Clients With a Wraparound Approach

In 2021, HOPE Atlanta and Action Ministries joined forces to create a comprehensive solution to the interconnected challenges of homelessness and hunger. This strategic combination expanded HOPE Atlanta’s services to include a community kitchen and food distribution, creating a more comprehensive support system for neighbors facing hard times.

With the ultimate goal of empowering clients to achieve self-sufficiency and thrive, HOPE Atlanta will now provide access to food and other essential services (like mental health care) as part of a wraparound approach. That means each client will receive individualized case management support in addition to basic needs like housing and hunger, with food tailored to support clients’ overall wellness goals.

“Stability is not just having a roof over one’s head, but also about addressing the underlying issues that have led to homelessness in the first place,” said HOPE Atlanta CEO Julio Carrillo. “Putting people in housing is not enough. You’ve got to make sure they have the appropriate support system to navigate that new life.”

A Team Effort

None of these initiatives would be possible if not for community supporters, volunteers, and partner organizations. To drive the new vision forward, HOPE Atlanta has formed a new collaboration with St. Vincent de Paul to distribute food to clients in our program and offer comprehensive case management support to those who come to St. Vincent de Paul for help meeting basic needs.

Corporate partners are also instrumental in providing hunger relief to our communities. For example, Publix Super Markets has long supported HOPE Atlanta (and previously Action Ministries) with generous food donations and efforts to raise awareness and funds.

Employees from Georgia’s Own Credit Union, another long-time advocate, recently took a hands-on approach to fighting hunger and spreading HOPE by volunteering at the Women’s Community Kitchen.

You Can Take Action, Too!

How can you get involved and make a difference during Hunger Action Month and beyond?

Volunteering at the Women’s Community Kitchen is a hands-on way to give back to the community while gaining a deeper understanding of our neighbors’ challenges. When you sign up for a 3-hour shift (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays), you’ll prepare and serve food to 30–40 food-insecure women and children. This is an excellent opportunity for groups, businesses, schools, and families, and a wonderful way to give back during the upcoming holiday season.

“It was profoundly gratifying to interact with the women in attendance and experience their sincere appreciation for our efforts,” said HOPE Atlanta Board Chair Rocky Atkins, who recently volunteered with other HOPE Atlanta leaders during HOPE Immersion Day.

“If you haven’t volunteered yet, I urge you to find the time. You will come away with a greater understanding and respect for the work we do.”

Learn more about volunteering at the Women’s Community Kitchen and sign up for a shift. Short on time? Shopping HOPE Atlanta’s Amazon Wish List and making a donation are some of the fastest and most effective ways to contribute to the cause.