DAWSON, Ga. (WALB) — Food Lion Feeds is investing more than $12,000 in a “Great Pantry Makeover” at Positive Direction Youth Center on Oak Street in Dawson.

The organization received a total of $12,676 for the makeover, along with shelf-stable groceries, according to Food Lion Feeds.

Upgrades fund new storage, outdoor space

The money is paying for new flooring, landscaping, and commercial refrigeration. The upgrades will let the center store more fresh food and serve more families. The renovations include work taking place on the outside of the building.

Dr. Dorothy Tomlin, executive director of Positive Direction Youth Center, shared how the support has helped the organization.

“Well, I asked, ‘Can I scream?’ I was so excited. Feeding the Valley helps stock my pantry wherein I’m never short on no type of food,” said Dr. Tomlin.

Food Lion says they love giving back to the communities they serve.

“To have volunteers from across our South Georgia stores here helping bring this pantry makeover to life — this is what caring for our neighbors looks like,” said Sennica Harris, a retail support specialist for Food Lion.

Center plans to expand programs

With the new cold storage and support from Food Lion Feeds, Positive Direction Youth Center plans to serve more children and expand STEM and garden programs. The center plans to continue promoting nutrition and sustainability in Terrell County.

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