By Jenny Jobson, Executive Director, Midtown Assistance Center
One of the most beautiful things about the Midtown Assistance Center (MAC) is that it brings together an incredibly diverse group of people – different faith traditions, socio-economic backgrounds, and various life experiences who have a shared vision for a better community and place for all our neighbors to thrive. MAC is a testament to the positive impact that a small group can have on a community. Rather than merely acknowledging a problem and hoping that someone else will take action, MAC’s dedicated volunteers, staff, and donors take initiative and proactively work to address issues related to homelessness and hunger.
What started as the vision of a small group of committed Midtown and Downtown Atlanta congregations with the support of the Midtown Alliance in 1986, has grown and continues to bring people together who value MAC’s mission to prevent homelessness and hunger.
What’s New with MAC: Our Big Move
The one word that captures the current season at MAC is CHANGE. We emerged from the global pandemic having redesigned our systems for assistance both in-person and remotely while experiencing tremendous growth and great needs in our community. That change was monumental and sometimes painful. 2022 brought a move from our home of 28 years at Atlanta First United Methodist Church.
This move was more than just a necessary change – it was a symbol of hope and progress. Atlanta First’s grand and generous vision to use their resources to build affordable housing on the property which once housed MAC is a testament to their commitment to improving our city. And with All Saints’ Episcopal Church providing in-kind rent for a space with ample room for growth and strategically located to be easily accessible for our neighbors in need, MAC is now back where it all began 37 years ago – a full circle moment that is filled with bittersweet gratitude.
MAC’s ability to embrace change with grace and gratitude is a testament to the resilience and dedication of the entire community. Our supporters and 250+ volunteers continue to show up and make a difference in the lives of our neighbors, and this move is just the latest example of the unwavering commitment to our mission.
The Challenge of Now
Our new view from 613 Spring in the heart of Midtown is surrounded by an ever-changing landscape of architectural brilliance and improved outdoor spaces where neighbors share their daily lives as they move throughout our community. We experience and enjoy the hustle and bustle of Public Life in Midtown and know that we still have much work to do. Life in this city is difficult for those living on the edge of hunger and homelessness. Steep rises in rent rates and food prices have created even greater hardships. Many of the workers performing important service jobs in our community lack resources and safety nets to stay afloat when emergencies arise. Look around. See the person who prepares your coffee at a nearby coffee shop, the server who takes your order, the childcare worker who watches your child, the construction workers busy on every block – these are the people who may be at risk.
Difference Makers Creating Positive Impact
In 2022, MAC provided over $700,000 in emergency assistance – preventing evictions, utility disconnections, providing groceries, transit passes, and work uniform items to our neighbors. We kept families housed, with utilities connected and food on the table… but it was so much more. The difference makers who faithfully support our work by unleashing generosity of time, talent and treasure provide MAC and our neighbors with hope. Tangible resources – financial, in-kind, volunteer – enable MAC to focus on preventing homelessness and hunger for neighbors in crisis. Our supporters, team and volunteers make a visible difference in our community. Their generosity leads to positive changes that not only benefit our neighbors in need but also contribute to making our shared piece of the world a better place.
Our clients always express it best.
One neighbor recently wrote, “This is a kind, compassionate organization staffed with volunteers with good hearts who do their best to help those in need without judgement or malice… They were what kept my lights on and what stood between me, and hunger and I am in their debt.”
The work of MAC and our community partners relies upon the change makers in our community. You don’t need to ask yourself if you can make a difference, look to MAC and know that you can.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” ― Margaret Mead
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