DeKalb County leaders are rolling out a series of programs aimed at easing economic pressure on families, including paying off all outstanding student meal debt in the county’s public schools.
County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson announced the initiatives this week as families continue to face rising costs for food, housing and transportation. She said the county is focusing on direct, practical support that reaches residents quickly.
The county will clear $16,530 in unpaid school meal balances, eliminating debt for 1,818 students districtwide. Officials said the move ensures students have access to school meals regardless of a family’s financial situation.
Food access has been a growing area of concern countywide, and officials outlined several additional efforts underway. DeKalb has invested $400,000 in holiday food distributions and is partnering with Midwest Food Bank to distribute 800 food boxes this weekend at locations across South DeKalb. The county also launched a Farm Fresh Mobile Market that brings locally grown produce to senior centers, recreation centers and select schools.
DeKalb is expanding its partnerships to meet residents where they are. A turkey distribution with MARTA is scheduled for Friday at Kensington Station, designed to reach households that rely on public transit. Officials said more long-term food security initiatives will be announced in the coming weeks, including support for local pantries and community organizations.
Alongside food support, county leaders highlighted new resources for residents dealing with housing instability. The DeKalb HOME–American Rescue Plan program is dedicating $5.5 million to assist people experiencing homelessness or facing the risk of losing housing. The program also supports survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and human trafficking.
The county is offering case management, employment assistance, childcare coordination, transportation help and behavioral health referrals. Residents seeking assistance can complete a pre-screening through the DeKalb Coordinated Entry System.
Allen Mitchell, director of the county’s Community Development Department, said, “We’re working to ensure that every resident has access to the basics they need to move forward,”
County officials say the goal is to provide relief now while building infrastructure that strengthens the safety net for years to come.
