ATLANTA — In this time of giving, Food in the City is stepping up to help people who are needing a hot meal and clothing. The organization will host a “Thanksgiving Give Back” on Monday at Midtown Collective (1429 Fairmont Ave.) in Atlanta.
This food and clothing drive is one of many, the organization hosts throughout the year. Food in the City puts on annual back-to-school gatherings, toy drives, and a day of service to feed people experiencing homeless in Atlanta. Food in the City Founder, Jakeem Smith said their mission is to make sure people remember that they are important and cared about, no matter who they are or what situation they are in.
“I think a lot of times we lose sight of who people are. Everyone goes through things. We encourage them we speak life into them,” said Smith.
Smith said the main goal of the program is to help and empower people. It starts with a meal, but Smith said those who eat are fed physically and mentally. He also said the help doesn’t stop at the food drive.
“We want people to have fun and not just feel like a charity case. We want to make sure that they feel loved and know they can contact us anytime,” said Smith.
He said volunteers with Food in the City keep contact with the families they serve during their events. Following the events, those with the organization check in with the families throughout the year to help with their progress. To date, Smith said the organization has served more than 200 families and gives an annual $5,000 grant to one family.
Food and the City will partner with several organizations for Monday’s food drive, including Latavia Roberson’s Le Papillon Foundation and Phat Plates Catering.
“Just because you are at the bottom right now, that doesn’t mean you’ll be in the same place tomorrow. That’s kind of how my life was,” said Smith. “This season may seem rough, but at the end of the day, there is something greater. You don’t have to do this alone, there are people here to help you and to help you go to the next level."
All are welcome to the “Thanksgiving Give Back." Meals will be served on a first-come, first-serve basis from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Midtown Collective.