( ENSPIRE Community Spotlight ) Monthly Community Initiative Brings Together Local Businesses, Volunteers, and Leaders to Serve Families in Need
ENSPIRE Contributor: Katherine Moy
Food in the City ATL is a nonprofit organization where volunteers, local businesses, and community leaders collaborate to help support families in need. Rather than seeking recognition, a genuine commitment motivates participants to participate in community service for those who need it most. Jakeem Smith, the founder of Food in the City ATL, led the “Together We Thrive: Feeding Hope” event at Keith James Auditorium, ensuring every family present felt seen, supported, and valued.
This event was possible because of the many kind acts of many people and organizations: Hot meals were prepared and served by Amir of 2AM Consulting LLC and Creative Hands by Jessica; Ashley Furniture provided beds, ensuring families sleeping on the floor had a place to rest; Power Atlanta Inc. and Suga’s Urban Farm, owned by Holly Rodriguez, donated fresh vegetables and frozen food to help stock families’ kitchens; Mr. Quinest of J4Events contributed custom letter designs and basketballs for NBA star Dwight Howard; Amazon provided laundry detergent, energy drinks, coffee, first aid kits, socks, book bags, and special treats for children; DJ Primo ATL played music that set a positive, bright atmosphere; Kings of Pop’s Southwest Atlanta provided refreshing popsicles; R&B singer RL Huggar (of the group Next) and his wife, Lena, owner of Lint Boutique, donated over $8,000 worth of brand-new clothing and shoes for both men and women; Code 44, led by Mike Pearson and Jakeem Smith, played a significant role in picking up, organizing, and distributing donations; PHL Investment Group (Prince Levy) made the event possible with financial contributions; Makhi Bell and his mother, Yolanda Bell, dedicated their time and energy to making sure everything was according to plan.
This event was more than just people receiving material assistance–it was full of dignity and community connection, lifting people and letting them know they are not alone through their hardships. Jakeem established Food in the City to nourish people spiritually, mentally, and physically after identifying a need for compassionate community action. Volunteers welcomed each person with warmth, businesses contributed generously, and Jakeem and his team worked with purpose and faith, confident in their positive impact. One of Jakeem’s proudest achievements so far has been distributing 500 laptops last December to needy families. This year, partnering with the City of College Park, he aims to serve 1,000 kids—a testament to the power of community generosity and faith.
Uniting to create impactful change is just the beginning; anyone can be a part of it. Food in the City ATL welcomes all volunteers and supporters. For more information, support, and involvement in this mission, sign up at www.foodinthecityatl.com.
Related Articles: Entrepreneur and Philanthropist Jakeem Smith Rises to Fame, TBC Corporation Lends Food Aid to South Florida and Community During Holidays
