The Giving Bowl began in 2017 when 10-year-old CJ Matthews realized that many kids he knew weren’t eating regularly when school wasn’t in session. Wanting to help his friends feel cared for and supported, he turned the one thing he loved most—football—into a way to fight hunger. What started as kids playing a game for a cause quickly became a meaningful youth-led tradition of service and compassion.
Today, The Giving Bowl is a brother-led initiative. CJ, now 18, manages planning, logistics, and youth volunteers, while his younger brother, Kollin—who was only 2 when it began—now plays in the event and helps lead its impact. Together, the brothers have engaged more than 3,000 youth since 2017 through volunteering, donating, and playing for a purpose.
Each winter, The Giving Bowl provides:
• Food and grocery support for families facing hunger
• Blankets and warm essentials to keep kids safe in the cold
• Toys for Tots registration assistance to ensure every child is included
The Giving Bowl also complements Blankies 4 My Buddies’ annual Back-to-School Kickoff, which provides backpacks, supplies, shoes, and hygiene items to help children start the school year strong.
With nearly 300,000 Georgia children experiencing food insecurity each year, the need remains urgent. Many families have only recently regained access to SNAP benefits, making community support more critical than ever.
Also check out other Kids events & activities in McDonough, Sports events in McDonough, Nonprofit events in McDonough.
