Local families gathered this week at Rehoboth Baptist Church in Tucker, where Atlanta Falcons linebacker Jalon Walker joined UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Georgia and Innovative Solutions for Disadvantage & Disability (ISDD) to distribute holiday gifts and groceries to more than140 families – about 250 individuals, many of them children.

Walker joined UnitedHealthcare executives and volunteers to distribute wrapped gifts for children, nonperishable food bags, and holiday essentials. These resources aim to support both food security and emotional well-being during the holiday season, ensuring families have one less worry and can enjoy nutritious meals together.

According to America’s Health Rankings 2024 Report, 13.7% of households in Georgia live below the poverty level, ranking the state 38th nationally. Community efforts like this highlight the importance of addressing social determinants of health, such as access to healthy food and supportive environments, which play a vital role in children’s overall well-being.

“Health happens everywhere – not just in clinics,” said Mike Minor, CEO, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Georgia. “By coming together to provide food and gifts, we’re helping families feel supported and connected during the holidays, which is essential for both physical and emotional health.”

ISDD, a longtime partner of UnitedHealthcare, works year-round to support kinship caregivers raising children with disabilities and chronic health conditions. Their collaboration with UnitedHealthcare and Jalon Walker reflects a shared commitment to strengthening families and communities across Georgia.

“We are truly grateful to partner with United Healthcare and Jalon Walker this holiday season to support families through the ISDD Adopt A Family program. With the rising costs of housing, food, and medicine—and the reduction of SNAP benefits and other assistance—many families are struggling more than ever. This support provides meaningful relief, stability, and a sense of hope during a time when it’s needed most.” Holly York, Executive Director ISDD.

For more information about UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Georgia, visit UHCCP.com/GA.

To learn more about ISDD, visit isdd-home.org.