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Solidarity Sandy Springs tells council $25,000 city grant helped expand produce distribution, senior pop-ups
Summary
Solidarity Sandy Springs described growth since 2020 and thanked the city for a $25,000 grant used to purchase fresh produce. The volunteer group outlined operations: three weekly distributions, monthly senior pop-ups, partnerships with area HUD-subsidized housing, and an expanded volunteer program.
Solidarity Sandy Springs told the city council Sept. 16 that a $25,000 city grant has helped expand its fresh-produce distributions, pop-up markets and outreach to seniors and HUD-subsidized properties.
Founder Jennifer Barnes described starting in March 2020 as a neighborhood response to school closures and food insecurity. The group sourced donated food and added produce purchased from the state farmers market; Barnes said the city's grant allowed the group to provide 12 to 15 fresh produce items to shoppers each distribution day and to scale pop-ups at the Dorothy Benson Center and other locations.
Operational details: Solidarity runs three weekly distributions (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, 8:30-11:30 a.m.) and monthly senior pop-ups. Barnes said the program served as many as 170 shoppers at a recent Benson Center event and that households receive an estimated retail value exceeding $200 per shopping visit. The group also runs seasonal programs (Mother's Day, Secret Santa, Halloween trunk-or-treat) and a summer camp that took 39 kids last year.
Partnerships and volunteers: Barnes credited commercial real estate partners for donated space across several locations, and said the group works with Northside Hospital for health clinics. She said volunteers, many retired, provide a recurring volunteer base and that the organization provides opportunities for businesses and groups to run team-building service projects.
Council reaction: Council members thanked the group for its work and encouraged residents to volunteer; Council Member John Paulson asked about volunteer sign-up, and Barnes directed people to the organization's website (www.solidaritysandysprings.org) where a volunteer sign-up button is available.
What was requested: Barnes asked for continued community awareness and monetary donations to buy produce; she described the group's role as a safety net to prevent households from choosing between rent or food. The council did not take formal action but expressed appreciation and asked staff to continue outreach where appropriate.
