Atlanta Hawks, State Farm Arena Prepare For Annual Million Meal Pack Initiative To Combat Food Insecurity

In an effort to combat food insecurity in Atlanta, the Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena have announced that the Annual State Farm Million Meal Pack is returning Sept. 27 and introducing the first-ever Atlanta Hawks Forkside Seats Sept.28.

Along with 5,000 volunteers and with more than 100 groups, the NBA team and State Farm Arena are hosting both events at the stadium this upcoming weekend.

This year’s Million Meal Pack, the fifth one held at the stadium, will assemble one million meals that will benefit Atlanta metro area communities, which will be distributed by U.S. Hunger, a leading hunger relief organization designed to help feed people struggling with food insecurity. The next day, the Hawks and Giving Kitchen are collaborating for the Atlanta Hawks Forkside Seats, fueled by Georgia Natural Gas. Eighteen Atlanta restaurants and their chefs will unite for a one-of-a-kind culinary experience served “Forkside” on the State Farm Arena floor.

For every ticket sold for Forkside Seats, the proceeds will go toward Giving Kitchen’s mission to provide emergency assistance and community resources to food service workers in crisis.

“Food and the dining experience is essential for life, relationships and healthy community. It is a privilege and great responsibility to use our platform and our world-class venue to bring the community together to fight food insecurity locally as well as provide for the urgent needs of food service workers,” said Steve Koonin, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Hawks and State Farm Arena in a written statement. “Our Million Meal Pack is a day full of energy, music and camaraderie while our first Forkside Seats event will bring some of the best restaurants in Atlanta to one spot for a unique dining experience on the floor of the arena. Whether you come to pack or come to eat, there is an opportunity for everyone to support those in need.”

Some prominent individuals involved in the sports, entertainment, government, and business world will participate, including Hawks Legend Dominique Wilkins, current Hawks players Dyson Daniels and Jalen Johnson, Atlanta City Council President Doug Shipman, and celebrities such as Mariah the Scientist and Young Dro.