Good news for families across District 2!
The Lead Poisoning Prevention Program has launched new Mini Free Pantries at health departments in Franklin, Hart, Lumpkin, and Stephens counties.
These pantries are stocked with nutritious, shelf-stable foods that help families stretch their grocery budgets and support children’s health. Many of the foods are rich in calcium, iron, and vitamin C — nutrients that help protect the body from absorbing lead.
When children get enough of these nutrients, their bodies are stronger, their immune systems are healthier, and they’re better protected against the harmful effects of lead.
Take What You Need — Anytime
These pantries are open to everyone — not just WIC families. Anyone who needs food is welcome to stop by and take what they need, when they need it.
If you’re visiting your local health department, you can ask staff to take a look at the pantry. Each one is fully stocked and ready to help families make healthy choices right at home.
You’ll also find easy-to-read handouts on how to keep your home safe from lead — including cleaning tips, healthy snack ideas, and safe cookware choices.
Pantry Locations
Franklin County Health Department
6955 Hwy 145 South, Carnesville, GA 30521
Hart County Health Department
64 Reynolds Street, Hartwell, GA 30643
Lumpkin County Health Department
60 Mechanicsville Road, Dahlonega, GA 30533
Stephens County Health Department
64 Boulevard, Suite 102, Toccoa, GA 30577
Learn More About Lead Safety
Lead can sometimes hide in unexpected places — from car keys to clay cookware to certain imported products.
To learn more about keeping your home safe, read our post “From Keys to Candy: Hidden Lead Risks and Essential Safety Tips”.
It shares simple, everyday steps to keep your family healthy and protected.
How WIC Connects
If your family is part of WIC, you’re already building the same healthy habits these pantries support!
WIC foods like milk, beans, eggs, cereal, whole grains, and fruits are full of calcium, iron, and vitamin C — the very nutrients that help protect against lead.
By combining your WIC foods with pantry items, you’re helping your child grow strong bones, healthy blood, and a bright future — all while keeping your home lead-safe.
Want to Learn More?
For questions or more information, contact Brianna Young, District Lead Coordinator, at Brianna.Young2@dph.ga.gov.
Together, we can build healthy homes and strong families — one pantry visit at a time.