Meet one our newest Hands On Hunger pantries: Power Atlanta! Founded in 2020, Power Atlanta, is committed to addressing the challenges of economic disparity and enhancing access to opportunities in Atlanta. Through a wide range of programs and partnerships, they provide resources and support needed for individuals and families to overcome challenges and achieve sustainable success.

Learn more about Power Atlanta in our interview below!

Tell us about why you applied to the Hands On Hunger Program and what you're goals are for the next two years.

We applied to create a streamlined volunteer process, where we find quality volunteers and a tracking system.

Tell us about your organization - what's your mission, and how does it impact our community?

Our mission is to empower marginalized communities with necessary programs and resources needed to thrive. we are located in an underserved area of West End Atlanta that lacks access to resources. We try to bring needed resources to the community.

How do volunteers support your mission? What impact do they have on your work? What is possible through the support of volunteers that would not be possible otherwise?

Volunteers are essential to POWER Atlanta's mission, allowing us to reach more people and offer a wider range of services. They help run programs like food distribution and, assist with fundraising events, and take care of office tasks, freeing up our staff to focus on bigger projects. Some volunteers even bring specialized skills, like IT support, which we might not be able to afford otherwise. Their involvement increases our capacity, strengthens our ties to the community, and saves costs, enabling us to allocate resources where they’re needed most. With their support, we can try new projects and expand our services until we have increased funding.

Volunteer with Power Atlanta - here

What community problem is your organization trying to solve? Can you tell us more about the issue?

We are tackling the challenges of poverty, economic instability, food insecurity, and health disparities, including HIV prevention, in the Metro-Atlanta area, particularly in the historic West End community. With many residents living below the poverty line and facing limited access to jobs, affordable housing, and essential resources, the organization works to break the cycle of poverty. POWER Atlanta also provides navigators to assist participants who are technology-challenged with applications for state services like Medicaid and food stamps. By offering comprehensive support, financial education, and health services, we empower individuals and aims to build a stronger, more resilient community.

Can you share some impact stats or comments about the work being done by your organization? For example, how many meals/families/individuals do you serve monthly?

We serve on average 950-1020 families a month. Our pantry is open weekly on Thursdays.

What kind of programming do you offer the community?

Basic Needs Assistance: A food pantry, clothing closet, housing support, and a drop-in resource center that provides immediate help and referrals to other organizations. Financial Literacy and Economic Stability: Workshops on budgeting and credit management, along with help accessing benefits like Medicaid and food stamps, especially for those who struggle with technology. Health and Wellness Services: HIV prevention education and testing, plus health screenings and wellness workshops. Community Engagement: Events, support groups, and outreach activities that bring the community together and provide peer support.

What types of projects do you offer? Tell us about a few different offerings. Do you have monthly or weekly recurringopportunities? How about your seasonal or annual events?

Weekly food pantry, Monthly community outreach events, Back to school bash, trunk or treat, Thanksgiving and Christmas feeding that includes personal hygiene products and weather related items distribution.

Tell us about what it's like to serve with your organization. How many volunteers do you host every month?

A fun time with community and you get to interact with people who have lots of different lived experiences.

What keeps volunteers coming back to serve with your organization?

To know they are making a difference in assisting customers with feeding their families.

Tell us about how volunteers can jump in and get involved. How can they best support you?

- Program Support: Help with the food pantry, assist in job training programs, or support health and wellness services.

- Event Support: Assist with planning and running fundraising and outreach events.

- Administrative Help: Provide office support, manage communications, or assist participants with technology needs for applications.

- **Specialized Skills:** Offer expertise in areas like legal advice, marketing, or IT support.

- Community Outreach: Spread awareness about our services and engage with the community.