Atlanta Falcons’ player brings holiday cheer to DeKalb community
On Dec. 16, local families gathered 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 spread holiday cheer.
The event provided holiday gifts and groceries to more than 140 families, serving around 250 individuals, many of whom were children.
Walker joined UnitedHealthcare executives and volunteers to distribute wrapped gifts for children, nonperishable food bags, and holiday essentials. According to UnitedHealthcare officials, 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 percent 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, stated a press release following the event.
“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.”
According to officials with ISDD, a longtime partner of UnitedHealthcare, the organization works year-round to support kinship caregivers raising children with disabilities and chronic health conditions. ISDD officials state that their collaboration with UnitedHealthcare and 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,” said Holly York, executive director of ISDD. “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.”
