When Governor Kemp took office in 2019, the new First Lady of Georgia, Marty Kemp, immediately got to work on causes close to her heart. While the First Lady’s efforts to end human trafficking and support survivors have been a highlight of the Kemp administration, her work to promote pet adoption has also been a defining feature of the Kemp family’s time in the Governor’s Mansion.
On four separate occasions, the grounds of the mansion have been transformed for Adoption Day and Georgia Grown Festival, which has helped 120 dogs, 7 cats, and 1 hamster find loving homes. Adoption groups and shelters from across the state are invited to bring their pets. The front lawn is filled with dogs and cats ready to be adopted. At this one-stop shop, Georgians can easily meet their next furry friend and learn how they can help support the mission of humane societies and rescue groups.
In addition to the focus on adoption, these events double as the Georgia Grown Festival, which showcases the many products Georgia producers are creating, and educates young attendees on where their food comes from. “Maggie the Cow” has been a particularly popular participant, providing a hands-on look at dairy cows. The mansion itself has grown to reflect the diversity of Georgia agriculture. Chickens from the “First Flock” provide fresh eggs, native flora populate the grounds, and honeybees of the “First Hive” produce honey that is available for sale during tours. Additionally, all food from the mansion kitchen is made using Georgia grown ingredients, providing visitors a taste of Georgia they won’t soon forget.
In the coming days, the First Lady will again welcome Georgians to the mansion for the latest Adoption Day and Georgia Grown Festival. With tours available throughout the week and annual events such as the Easter egg hunt and Christmas Tree lighting on the calendar, the doors of the People’s House are open and helping Georgians create memories that will last a lifetime.
