More than 200 people turned out Thursday, April 29, for Family Promise of North Fulton/DeKalb’s Third Annual Family Promise Meals with Meaning Fundraiser.
The event raised more than $45,000 to benefit Family Promise of North Fulton/DeKalb, a community-based organization whose mission is to help homeless and at-risk families with children in North Fulton and DeKalb counties.
“Meals with Meaning began as a way to bring this community together,” said Andrea Brantley, executive director of Family Promise of North Fulton/DeKalb. “It began with passing a platter, with fellowship among neighbors, with Family Promise families bravely sharing their stories.
“…Family Promise is unique in the way that we come together as a community to encourage and empower families,” Brantley said. “With this support, families are able to move from crisis to stability.”
The event gave attendees a behind-the-scenes view of Family Promise’s work. In addition, attendees heard interviews with volunteers, community members, local clergy and families who benefited from the program, including a local police officer and his family.
“It could happen to anybody — even a police officer,” the officer’s wife said. “Life doesn’t pick and choose who it happens to; life happens to everybody.”
Family Promise partners with more than 20 local congregations to provide food and shelter to families and their children. In addition, the team offers essential assistance, including intensive case management, life skills classes, career coaching and financial literacy.
Since 2012, Family Promise of North Fulton/DeKalb has housed more than 300 individuals at local congregations and helped more than 90 families and nearly 200 children.
“While all around us the need continues to grow, we at Family Promise are growing to meet it,” said George Orlin, chair of the Family Promise of North Fulton/DeKalb board. “We are excited to expand our reach in this community as we build on the incredible strides we’ve made.”
For more information, visit familypromisenfd.org.