Decatur, Georgia – DeKalb County has announced the return of two significant community support programs for 2024: the summer food program and Soldier Angel’s food distribution for veterans. These initiatives underscore the county’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations, including children and veterans.
Supporting Veterans and Children in DeKalb County
Soldier Angel’s Food Distribution for Veterans
Scheduled for Feb. 23, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the next DeKalb County-sponsored food distribution event for veterans will be held at the Atlanta VA Arcadia Clinic (250 North Arcadia Avenue, Decatur). This event, crucial for veteran and military-connected families, plans to serve 200 preregistered families. Each recipient will receive about 75 pounds of essential food items, including fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and non-perishables. These items will be packed by volunteers and can be collected in various ways, such as in cars, pushcarts, or backpacks.
Veterans and service members interested in participating in the Soldiers’ Angels event are required to apply at www.soldiersangels.org/atlanta.
DeKalb County’s Summer Food Program
In partnership with the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning and the Happy Helping Program, the DeKalb County Department of Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Affairs is set to run its summer food program. This program is dedicated to providing food for youth aged 18 and under. It will operate from June 3 to July 19. The news release emphasizes the need for early applications from agencies wishing to serve as distribution sites.
To be eligible as a site, at least 50 percent of the children served must meet the income guidelines for free and reduced-price meals under the National School Lunch Program. Children from households receiving food stamp benefits or Aid for Dependent Children (AFDC) assistance are automatically eligible.
Agencies, particularly those with summer camps, interested in becoming a program site should contact 678-698-1114. Full details about the program site participation requirements and applications are available at www.dekalbcountyga.gov/parks under the “Summer Food Application” tab, or they can be obtained from the Mason Mill Recreation Center (1340 McConnell Drive, Decatur), Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For additional information, LaShanda Davis, the public relations specialist for Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Affairs, can be contacted at (404) 710-6331 or [email protected]. These initiatives represent a vital effort by DeKalb County to address food insecurity among its veteran and youth populations, providing necessary support to those in need.