NE Atlanta News

When Lorenzo Carter asked his sister for a favor, she quickly agreed. The Lucky Charm Family Farm, managed by London Whitaker, would support Atlanta Falcons teammate James Smith-Williams' dinner event at the Family Promise of Hall County center in Oakwood, Georgia. This event aimed to assist domestic violence survivors.

"It's only right," said Whitaker. "That's what we're supposed to do. We're supposed to give back."

Whitaker took on the task of creating a farm-to-table meal for over 100 guests, all locally sourced from their farm. Despite her initial nerves about the large-scale preparation, she found comfort in the purpose behind the event.

"I put so much pressure on myself," Whitaker said. "But then, I realized there is beauty in imperfection."

The dinner served families who had faced difficult times and included participation from other Falcons players like Justin Simmons and Matthew Judon. They assisted with serving meals and interacting with attendees.

"Everybody doesn't have the chance to go out and eat a nice meal," Carter said. "So, for us to be able to come here and do that for them... it's super huge."

This was Carter's first time helping at the Family Promise center, while Smith-Williams has been involved since joining the Falcons through Set The Expectation, a nonprofit focused on ending violence.

"It's awesome... for the children to be able to meet the people behind the helmets," Smith-Williams stated.

Smith-Williams has supported causes against domestic violence since 2017 after being inspired by Brenda Tracy's message at North Carolina State University.

"The message I took away was: If you're a good man... then what are you doing to help this cause?" he reflected.

Whitaker expressed her commitment to providing comfort through food during challenging times as plans for future events began taking shape.

"I know sometimes... food is comforting," Whitaker noted. "Today, I'm going to feed you and you're going to enjoy it."