Atlanta Mayor Bottoms viral ‘More than Mac’ campaign raises $37K

The “More than Mac” campaign, in conjunction with Kroger, raised more than $37,000 for the Atlanta Community Food Bank, city officials announced in a news release Monday.

Bottoms created the campaign in an effort to address hunger issues in Atlanta. The campaign idea came after her viral macaroni and cheese dish looked less than appetizing to social media critics.

"We are grateful for the compassion shown during this campaign – from both our corporate and nonprofit partners and the shoppers who stepped up to this challenge and raised awareness and funds to combat hunger in our city," Bottoms said in the release.

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Between Jan. 31 and Feb. 16, Kroger customers rounded up their purchases to the nearest dollar or could donate an amount of their choosing to the campaign.

Each $1 raised provided the food bank with four meals. The donations created 148,000 meals through the campaign.

“Issues of inequity, such as food insecurity in our communities, must be met with thoughtful action, and we remain committed to finding innovative ways to assist our most vulnerable residents,” Bottoms said.

In other news:

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Mayor Bottoms said the action will help close the pay gap for women