As we prepare to gather and feast with family and friends, it's important to remember the faces of our community who, though they may not be gathered in our own dining rooms, deserve to be treated as such. Though these two organizations don't stop fighting for overlooked communities and amplifying their unheard cries for help year-round, the holiday season can be especially taxing on those in need and those tirelessly working to help them while pouring into their own circles. Unhoused children and unfed families are prevalent throughout our county, and these charities are making the changes necessary so that all Cobb County residents have provision this holiday season.
Down 7 Up 8
As a foster parent of over 300 children, Rose Diggs has been acutely aware of the pitfalls and shortcomings in todays foster care system for years. But she has also always recognized the potential for life change in each and every misfortunate child that ends up in the system.
"I saw the resilience in their spirits, the dreams they harbored, and the potential that often lay dormant due to limited opportunities," says Rose.
The organization hosts annual events solely designed to celebrate and promote children's self-worth, and provides year-round tutoring and mentorship programs that not only encourage development, but create a sense of normalcy that might offset their challenging life experiences.
Those with a like minded heart for foster children and a desire to make a difference in their lives can support Down 7 Up 8 this holiday season through financial contribution, volunteer efforts, advocacy and in-kind donations.
PORCH Marietta
Liz Platner, founder of PORCH Marietta, started the organization after working at a Roswell food pantry for years and realizing just how easily food insecurity and homelessness can sneak up on anyone.
"People coming to the pantry for help often told me they never thought they'd need to ask for food," explains Liz.
PORCH Communities, the national nonprofit, creates sustainable hunger relief programs at local levels. PORCH Marietta partners with 15 local food pantries to identify their greatest needs each month. From there, willing donors place the needed food on their porch once a month for volunteers to pick up and distribute among pantries.
During the holidays, PORCH is collecting financial donations to buy holiday dinners for families in need. The community is also encouraged to host their own food drives to aid the cause. And if neither of those are possible, something as simple as spreading the word about PORCH on social media can make an impact.