Helping Families Affected by Government Shutdown
On November 1, 2025, thousands of families didn’t receive their SNAP (food stamp) payments. For over two weeks, families across the country scrambled to figure out how to get food for their families. Even though payments have been restored, a lot of families have been struggling throughout the year, so adding this on to their plate has created an even deeper ripple effect.
To offset some of the pressure families are facing, restaurateur Gocha Hawkins is giving away 100 Thanksgiving dinners to Atlanta families through Gocha’s Illumination Foundation in partnership with Gocha’s Breakfast Bar and Gocha’s Tapas Bar. This event takes place on November 19, 2025, at 7 p.m. EST at Gocha’s Tapas Bar, located in Southwest Atlanta.
According to a press release, the dinners will include traditional Thanksgiving favorites like turkey, collard greens, and more.
“You have to be able to work with the community that supports you, [and] my community is extremely supportive,” said Hawkins.
The event is open to families in need and they can sign up on a first-come, first-served basis by clicking here.
Finding Ways to Give Back
According to FSR Magazine, Gocha spent three decades as a hairstylist, where she serviced many celebrities, including Beyoncé and Serena Williams. Along with being in the hair industry, she’s also had a dream of owning her own restaurant, and when she moved into an Atlanta neighborhood, she decided to go for that dream to provide healthy food options.
Hawkins opened her first restaurant, Gocha’s Breakfast Bar, in 2018.
Hawkins has reached heights of success in two industries, and she makes it a part of her mission to continue to give back. She encourages everyone to find a way to help someone else, no matter what platform they may have.
She suggests volunteering, sharing posts, and contributing to a cause they care about, even if it’s a dollar.
Hawkins has learned over the years to lead by example, and she’s leading her team and the community into helping one another.
She plans to host a Christmas dinner giveaway and is looking for volunteers and donations. For more information, click here.
