The year's end invites us to gather around fireplaces and commune over joyfully prepared feasts, but not everyone should be so lucky. Homelessness across the country has surged since the pandemic, and the situation in our community is no different. Thankfully, organizations in and around our region combat these circumstances daily.
There's no better time than this season of gratitude to extend help to the many struggling around us, and these local organizations are a great place to start.
MUST Ministries
Based in Cobb County, MUST Ministries strives to meet the basic needs of individuals and families in our area. With services providing food, housing, workforce development and clothing, there's more than one way to get involved, and they make it easy. Choose an issue near and dear to you or your family's heart, see what's available on the Volunteer Opportunities calendar at mustministries.org and sign up for your first shift.
Or, do some cardio for a cause at their annual Gobble Job on Thanksgiving Day at Marietta Square. With courses for all skill levels and over 10,000 runners participating, anyone can sign up to be a runner.
Giving Kitchen
By meeting the needs of food service workers in crisis with food, Giving Kitchen gives back to one of our most important and often overlooked industries. Spurred by an outpouring of love and support for local supper club owner Ryan Hidinger as he battled against cancer, Giving Kitchen quickly grew into a nonprofit network serving food service workers across Atlanta. Hear the testimonies of those they've helped and donate to the mission at thegivingkitchen.org.
Center for Family Resources
Lastly, consider supporting the Center for Family Resources' mission to end childhood homelessness. Their programs teach families stricken by homelessness life skills like budgeting, parenting and resume writing to get them off the streets and keep them there. Those looking to get involved can find volunteer opportunities and donation resources at thecfr.org.