The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the issues of hunger and domestic violence in many communities, especially among low-income and marginalized groups. However, some local organizations and individuals are stepping up to provide relief and support to those in need.
Food Banks Receive Generous Donations from Businesses and Residents
One of the organizations that is helping to fight hunger in the community is the Atlanta Community Food Bank, which serves 29 counties in Georgia. The food bank has seen a surge in demand for its services since the pandemic began, as more people lost their jobs, income, and access to food.
To meet this challenge, the food bank has received generous donations from various businesses and residents, who have contributed money, food, and volunteer hours. For example, the food bank recently received a $25,000 donation from the Kroger Foundation, which will help provide 100,000 meals to families in need. The food bank also received a truckload of food from Publix Super Markets, which donated more than 42,000 pounds of non-perishable items.
In addition, the food bank has partnered with local schools, churches, and community groups to distribute food to those who cannot visit its facilities. The food bank operates more than 250 mobile pantries across its service area, which deliver food directly to neighborhoods and households.
Domestic Violence Shelters Get Support from Local Foundations and Donors
Another issue that has worsened during the pandemic is domestic violence, as more people are confined to their homes with abusive partners or family members. According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, the number of calls, texts, and chats increased by 9% from 2019 to 2020, reaching a total of 379,651 contacts.
To help victims and survivors of domestic violence, several local shelters and organizations have received support from foundations and donors, who have donated money, supplies, and services. For example, the Partnership Against Domestic Violence (PADV), which operates two shelters and a 24-hour crisis line in Atlanta, received a $50,000 grant from the Mary Kay Foundation, which will help fund its programs and operations. The PADV also received donations of personal care items, clothing, and toys from the Atlanta Falcons, who visited one of its shelters and delivered the gifts in person.
Another organization that is helping domestic violence victims is the Women’s Resource Center to End Domestic Violence (WRCDV), which offers emergency shelter, transitional housing, legal advocacy, and counseling services. The WRCDV received a $20,000 grant from the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta, which will support its COVID-19 response and recovery efforts. The WRCDV also received donations of laptops, tablets, and headphones from the Atlanta Tech Village, which will enable its clients to access online education, employment, and health resources.
How You Can Help Fight Hunger and Domestic Violence in Your Community
If you want to join the efforts to fight hunger and domestic violence in your community, there are many ways you can help. Here are some suggestions:
- Donate money, food, or supplies to your local food bank or domestic violence shelter. You can find a list of food banks in Georgia [here] and a list of domestic violence shelters [here].
- Volunteer your time and skills to help with food distribution, shelter operations, crisis intervention, or other tasks. You can contact your local food bank or domestic violence shelter to find out their volunteer opportunities and requirements.
- Raise awareness and advocate for the issues of hunger and domestic violence. You can share information and resources on social media, sign petitions, write letters, or join campaigns. You can also educate yourself and others about the causes and effects of hunger and domestic violence, and how to prevent and respond to them.
- Support local businesses and organizations that are helping to fight hunger and domestic violence. You can shop, dine, or donate at businesses that partner with or support food banks or domestic violence shelters. You can also attend or sponsor events or fundraisers that benefit these causes.
By taking these actions, you can make a difference in the lives of many people who are facing hunger and domestic violence in your community. Together, we can create a more just and compassionate society for everyone.
