Atlanta, GA – December 10, 2024 – This holiday season, Atlanta witnessed a heartwarming display of unity and generosity as community leaders, businesses, and organizations joined forces for the Community Connections: A Holiday Gift Giveaway. Hosted by the Food In The City Foundation in partnership with Smoot Films, Compudopt, Ashley Furniture, Amazon, Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks, Gocha’s Breakfast Bar, Pepsi, AT&T, and others, the event provided essential resources to over 500 families in Metro Atlanta.
A Vision of Hope: Community Connections
Community Connections went far beyond a traditional giveaway—it was a transformative initiative designed to meet critical needs for families facing economic challenges. More than 500 laptops, computers, and hotspots were distributed, alongside brand-new beds, hearty meals, and a shared sense of hope for a brighter future.
The event, held in Metro Atlanta, delivered tools to bridge the digital divide. Laptops and hotspots, donated by AT&T and Compudopt, came with free technical support for two years, ensuring families had the connectivity needed to thrive in today’s digital age. Ashley Furniture contributed brand-new beds, helping families establish safe, comfortable spaces at home—offering more than rest, but a true foundation for stability.
Yet the day wasn’t just about meeting practical needs; it was about creating moments of joy. Families gathered to enjoy delicious, soul-warming meals prepared by Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks and Gocha’s Breakfast Bar, adding a festive atmosphere to a day filled with giving and gratitude.
A Unified Community Effort
The success of Community Connections was made possible by Atlanta’s leaders, businesses, and influencers, who came together to demonstrate the power of partnership and compassion.
Among the key contributors were:
• Derrick Hayes, owner of Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks, whose unwavering commitment to giving back continues to inspire.
• Gocha Hawkins, entrepreneur and owner of Gocha’s Breakfast Bar, whose generosity extended beyond her culinary expertise.
• Compudopt, the nonprofit leading the charge in breaking barriers to technology access.
• Ashley Furniture, whose donation of beds helped families create havens of comfort and rest.
• Smoot Films, whose precise logistical execution ensured the event’s success.
The event was further elevated by the support of local leaders and influencers, including actress Monyetta Shaw, music executive Debra Antney, actors Travis Cure and Arrington Foster, and organizations like Linda B’s Grace Foundation and Creative Hands LLC.
Event Highlights
The day was filled with meaningful moments and significant contributions:
• Technology Access: Families received laptops, computers, and hotspots from AT&T and Compudopt, empowering them to stay connected for education and employment opportunities.
• Comfort at Home: Ashley Furniture provided new beds, helping families establish stability and comfort.
• Holiday Meals: Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks and Gocha’s Breakfast Bar served hot, flavorful meals, creating a sense of togetherness and joy.
• Collaboration in Action: Corporate partners like Amazon, Pepsi, and Smoot Films played critical roles in ensuring seamless operations.
About the Food In The City Foundation
The Food In The City Foundation is committed to serving underserved communities in Atlanta by providing essential resources such as food, technology, furniture, and clothing. With a focus on empowering youth and supporting homeless populations, the foundation is dedicated to creating pathways for brighter, more promising futures.
Looking Ahead: A Brighter Tomorrow
The Community Connections: A Holiday Gift Giveaway serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when compassion meets collaboration. The Food In The City Foundation and its partners continue to pave the way for positive change—one family, one laptop, and one meal at a time.
(Images Courtesy: New North Studios)
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