DeKalb County officials announced a series of new initiatives aimed at supporting families during ongoing economic difficulties. At a press conference, CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson was joined by the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners, Community Development Department, and School District to outline measures intended to help residents meet basic needs.
“Across the nation, and right here in Dekalb County, families are feeling the effects of a challenging economy,” said CEO Cochran-Johnson. “As costs rise and uncertainty continues, we are responding with compassion, coordination, and action.”
One initiative will see DeKalb County pay off all outstanding student meal debt for the county’s school district. Currently, 1,818 students have negative meal account balances totaling $16,530.68. The county says eliminating this debt will allow children to focus on learning without worrying about lunch costs.
Enrollment at DeKalb County schools dropped by 2.2% in the 2022-23 school year compared to the previous year (https://www.gadoe.org/). During that period, total enrollment was 98,287 students (https://www.gadoe.org/), with White students comprising 14% of the student body (https://www.gadoe.org/).
Additional efforts include a $400,000 investment in two food distributions for residents during the holiday season. In partnership with Midwest Food Bank, 800 food boxes will be distributed this Saturday at First African Baptist Church and Global Refuge on Memorial Drive as well as New Life Church in South DeKalb.
The county has also launched the DeKalb Farm FreshMobile Market to bring fresh produce from Georgia farms directly to senior centers, recreational facilities, and select schools in South DeKalb.
A new Resource Assistance Guide and website (www.resourcesindekalb.com) has been developed with Human Services to connect residents to support programs for food, housing, utilities, healthcare, and finances.
In collaboration with MARTA, turkeys will be distributed Friday at noon at Kensington MARTA Station for individuals who rely on public transportation.
The county is exploring additional ways to address food insecurity through year-round access to nutritious food by supporting local pantries alongside community organizations.
DeKalb HOME-American Rescue Plan Program is allocating $5.5 million toward housing instability issues affecting people experiencing homelessness or those at risk—including survivors of domestic violence or trafficking and other vulnerable populations. The program offers supportive services such as case management and employment assistance. Residents can apply by calling (404) 687-3500 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Community Development Department Director Allen Mitchell said: “Together, we are building a stronger, more stable, and more compassionate DeKalb County where every resident has access to housing and the resources they need to thrive.”
