DALTON, GA - Roan School was recently selected as a recipient of the State of Hope Grant through the Helping Hands Ending Hunger (HHEH) program, in partnership with the Chattanooga Area Food Bank.
Helping Hands Ending Hunger is a nonprofit organization focused on reducing food waste and addressing hunger by redirecting surplus food from schools and community partners to students and families.
Several Dalton Public Schools participate in the HHEH program, which supports access to nutritious and culturally meaningful foods while encouraging students to take part in meaningful service to their school community.
During the celebration, families received a variety of foods, including fresh produce such as bell peppers, cilantro, corn, peppers, squash, sweet potatoes, jalapeƱos, and more. Roan School student ambassadors assisted with packing food bags, and several families joined in for photos and community time, highlighting the strong sense of togetherness and service that defines the school community.
Representatives from the American Heart Association, a leading national nonprofit committed to improving cardiovascular health and supporting healthier communities, were also in attendance. The American Heart Association recently visited multiple Dalton Public Schools to donate slow cookers and provided additional appliances for families participating in the HHEH program.
These donations are part of a broader initiative to empower families to prepare nutritious, heart-healthy meals at home. To support this effort, the American Heart Association shared educational resources promoting fruit and vegetable consumption, along with recipe cards designed for use with the donated slow cookers
āWe are incredibly grateful for the State of Hope Grant and the support it brings to our school,ā said Rosa Perez, School Counselor at Roan Elementary. āHelping Hands Ending Hunger teaches our students that even small acts of service can make a big difference. This program not only helps meet essential needs but also builds empathy, leadership, and a true sense of community.ā
Representatives from the State of Hope initiative and the Chattanooga Area Food Bank attended the event to honor this achievement and recognize the collective impact of partnerships that address food insecurity and promote student well-being.
Dalton Public Schools is proud of Roan School and all participating schools for their commitment to creating a supportive environment where students learn the importance of compassion, leadership, and community involvement.