The holiday season is about gathering, giving, and making sure no one is left behind. On Tuesday, that spirit was on full display in Southwest Atlanta as the City came together to support families facing food insecurity.
Mayor Andre Dickens joined Ciara Wilson, faith leaders, and community partners at the Southwest Atlanta CARES Hub to announce a generous donation from the Why Not You Foundation to the Atlanta Community Food Bank. The donation will help provide meals to Atlanta families affected by recent delays in federal SNAP benefits.
A season of care, powered by community
When SNAP delays disrupted access to groceries for families across the city, Atlanta responded quickly. Through ATL Community Action and Relief for Emergency Support, known as ATL CARES, the City partnered with trusted organizations already serving neighborhoods every day.
The Atlanta Community Food Bank stepped in immediately, expanding food distribution to meet the need. The Why Not You Foundation’s contribution strengthens that effort, helping keep shelves stocked and meals moving to families who need them most.
“This is what the holidays should look like,” Mayor Dickens said. “Neighbors stepping up for neighbors and making sure families have food on the table during a time that should be filled with warmth and togetherness.”
A hometown return with heart
Ciara Wilson’s return to Atlanta made the moment even more meaningful. A military child who moved to College Park as a teen and graduated from high school in Riverdale, Wilson’s roots in metro Atlanta run deep. Last year, the City officially recognized her impact by proclaiming July 28 as Ciara Day in Atlanta.
Through the Why Not You Foundation, Wilson and her husband Russell have spent more than a decade supporting children’s health, education, and initiatives that help families thrive. This holiday-season donation continues that commitment, turning compassion into action right here at home.
Faith, partnership, and real impact
The announcement took place inside the fellowship hall at Saint Peter Missionary Baptist Church, which also serves as a Southwest Atlanta CARES Hub. Faith leaders, community advocates, and elected officials gathered to celebrate what happens when the public, private, and nonprofit sectors come together with a shared purpose.
During his remarks, Mayor Dickens shared a simple message: care for a city should be visible. In Atlanta, that means showing up, standing in the gap, and being a bridge for families navigating uncertainty.
As the holidays approach, ATL CARES continues to reflect Atlanta’s heart. A city where generosity shines, partnerships matter, and love looks like meals on tables and hope carried home.
Find help or get involved
Residents who need food assistance or want to support ongoing efforts can find resources and distribution information through the Atlanta Community Food Bank.
