Braves serve up home run with Clayton State food distribution event

(August 29, 2023) - The first-ever Atlanta Braves Home Plate Project food distribution event at Clayton State University proved to be a massive success on August 24.

A solid line of lane of traffic made its way into the surrounding parking lot just outside the Student Activities Center this past Thursday morning.

According to Sarah Ray, Clayton State’s director of Student Life, the Braves partnered with organizations such as Urban Recipe, Noonday, and Chick-fil-A to provide 400 hot meals, 250 non-perishable boxes, and 250 perishable boxes to Clayton State students, employees, and Clayton County community members. 

43 volunteers lent a helping hand by directing traffic, loading vehicles, and delivering food to residents in Laker Hall and Laker Village. 

“Student organization representatives included Alpha Phi Omega, the Fraternity and Sorority Council, and the Tennis Club,” Ray said. “Additional volunteers included Student Life, Laker Navigators, and the Student Food & Housing Insecurity Committee. Volunteer efforts proved that a small group of committed individuals can make a significant change. This event will have a lasting impact, and we look forward to future partnerships with the Atlanta Braves.” 

While the event was scheduled to run from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. that afternoon, all food provided was distributed to those in Laker Nation and the surrounding community just one hour into the drive.

Dr. Don Stansbury, the university’s vice president of Student Affairs, was thrilled by both the outcome of the event and the volunteer efforts of all involved.

“I am so impressed and proud of the Clayton State University students, faculty, and staff for their active participation in today’s event,” Stansbury said. “Partnering with the Atlanta Braves Home Plate Project is another great example of the power of collaboration to benefit both the Clayton State community and our local community.”