Civil Municipal Magazine - Nov 2023

50 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 4, ISSUE 11 nonprofit charity founded in Chattooga County… hunger and food insecurity is a primary issue that many of our residents face… [so], with our program, we’re focused on making sure that struggling families can get nutritious food that will support [them] and hopefully cultivate healthier habits along the way.” What’s unique about the program is that it’s solely school-based and student-led. After securing excess food from schools, that food is then supplemented with other nutritious foods secured via partnerships with regional food banks and other organizations. Since students are the main drivers behind the program, the charity has essentially eliminated issues dealing with portion limitations, proof of need, and other technical roadblocks. The charity’s resulting impact has even begun attracting national attention, as it has expanded to over one hundred and twenty schools and is now establishing footholds in Kentucky and Texas as well. With community nutrition being addressed, Chattooga County leaders have also taken steps towards addressing the accessibility of healthcare for its residents. A big issue they faced was the absence of a hospital. While Chattooga does have Urgent Care services, the closest hospital is about forty minutes away. So, to address this shortfall, Atrium Health Floyd has built the first rural Freestanding ER in the state of Georgia in Chattooga County. This $18 million investment is already underway. It is equipped with mobile mammography, CT, X-ray, a helipad, and a full laboratory. This state-of-the-art facility now stands as the county’s after-hours emergency care center that is open 24/7, making it the frontline support center for those dire medical emergencies that require an immediate response. Photo credit Ryan Medaris.png