In a small Georgia town, one elementary school principal’s big heart is making an even bigger impact. What started as a local dance competition victory turned into a lifeline for hundreds of children and their families — all thanks to one woman’s determination to tackle hunger head-on.
A Dance Floor Victory That Sparked a Movement
When Audre Allen, principal of Chatsworth Elementary School, entered the 2023 Dancing with the Murray Stars competition, she thought she was closing a chapter on her dancing days. Instead, she ended up starting something far more meaningful.
Allen took home the win — and $39,000 in prize money. But rather than celebrate the victory for herself, she channeled every dollar into a cause that had recently grabbed her attention: Helping Hands Ending Hunger, an organization committed to salvaging uneaten food from schools.
“Thousands of pounds of food are thrown away every day in school cafeterias,” Allen said. Determined to change that, she partnered with the nonprofit to create a food pantry — right in the heart of her school’s library.
From Bookshelves to Bags of Hope
What used to be a quiet, book-filled space now hums with life each week. Students work together, packing food into plastic bags, which are then placed into black thermal bags for discreet delivery. By Friday, those bags make their way home with the kids who need them most.
“It makes me feel good, because that gives one less worry off of parents, gives them a little ease,” one student volunteer shared.
The numbers speak for themselves: the pantry now supports between 200 to 250 students every single week. And while the shelves fill up fast, they empty even faster.
Community Generosity Fuels the Pantry
Allen’s initiative didn’t just stop with the $39,000. When supplies run low, she’s not afraid to ask for help. A quick post to her personal Facebook page often sparks an outpouring of donations.
“I’ll say, ‘Hey, we’re out of meat,’ and deer hunters or people with extra in the freezer bring it in,” Allen said, reflecting on the community’s unwavering support.
Even local businesses have joined the effort. The McMahan Law Firm, in partnership with News Channel 9, surprised Allen with a $500 donation to keep the pantry stocked. It’s a small but powerful reminder that kindness often comes full circle.
More Than Just a Meal
For some families, the impact of Allen’s food pantry goes beyond filling an empty stomach. It’s about creating moments and memories that many had never experienced before.
“Some of our families said it was the first Thanksgiving meal that they had ever enjoyed,” Allen shared.
It’s not just about food — it’s about dignity, hope, and knowing that someone cares.
