Local

Cars line up for miles for free Thanksgiving food giveaways across metro Atlanta

ATLANTA — With so many people in need as we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, Metro Atlanta food banks, churches and charities are trying to get the word out there’s still hope and resources for those who need them.

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Throughout the day Saturday, there are food giveaway and donation events scheduled in multiple counties for people struggling be it from the pandemic or other issues, to get a turkey and other fixings ahead of Thursday’s holiday.

Channel 2′s Christian Jennings was at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, where volunteers were giving out 1,500 boxes of food. The event started at 10 a.m., but people started lining up as early as 5 a.m. since the event was first-come, first-serve.

Ray Stone was second in line.

“I came out early,” Stone said. I said, the earlier, the better, you know.”

People at New Birth drove away with 20-pound boxes of fruits and vegetables and gift cards they can use at Walmart to buy a turkey or a ham.

DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond said that when he saw the record turnout, his heart dropped.

“When I saw the line, I said, ‘Oh my God.’ I realized even though we increased the amount of boxes by 700, we won’t have enough for those who need it today,” Thurmond said. “I don’t know what we’re going to say to the families we turn away.”

New Birth pastor Jamal Bryant said it’s a humbling reality check.

“For us to be able to do this the week before Thanksgiving really is an extension of what the church can do when we partner with the community,” Bryant said.

DeKalb County has been doing food distributions about once a month since the pandemic started. Thurmond said they aren’t going anywhere.

“We’re going to stay here as long as we can to help those who need it in this community,” Thurmond said.

TRENDING STORIES:

FOOD GIVEAWAYS SUNDAY:

Tyler Perry Studios -- 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Fort McPherson in East Point

5,000 families will receive non-perishable items and gift cards during this drive-thru event. First-come, first-serve.


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