Every community is made up of stories.
Some stories are about neighbors lending a hand. Some are about organizations coming together to solve challenges. Others are about people finding the support they need to keep moving forward through difficult seasons.
Today, we are launching a new storytelling series called Neighbors of North Fulton, a collection of conversations with the people who make our community stronger every day.
Inspired by the spirit of connection and storytelling championed by Humans of New York, this series will introduce you to the volunteers, partners, donors, staff members, and clients whose lives intersect through NFCC’s mission.
Our first story features Walter da Silva, LPC, a counselor with Summit Counseling who provides counseling services at NFCC three days each week.
Walter works directly with individuals and families facing challenges that often extend beyond financial hardship. While many people know NFCC for providing food, financial assistance, clothing, and educational support, fewer realize that mental health services are also available through community partnerships.
Through a partnership between Summit Counseling, NFCC, and support from Be Rich, eligible NFCC clients can receive up to 12 counseling sessions at no cost.
When asked what NFCC represents to the people he sees, Walter offered a simple but powerful image.
“Imagine you’re in a boat during a storm. The boat sinks, and you’re desperately trying to stay above water. Then you find a piece of wood to hold onto. That’s what NFCC feels like. It brings safety and security. It helps you stay above the water.”
His words capture something many people experience when they come to NFCC. Often, they aren’t looking for a handout. They’re looking for stability. A next step. A reason to believe things can get better.
For some, that support comes through food assistance or financial coaching. For others, it comes through a conversation with a counselor who provides a safe space to process grief, anxiety, uncertainty, or life transitions.
Mental health challenges can affect anyone, and seeking support is an act of courage. Through partnerships like the one with Summit Counseling, NFCC is able to connect neighbors with professional care that might otherwise be out of reach.
As we begin this series, we hope you’ll see what we see every day: a community built on people helping people.
These are the Neighbors of North Fulton.
And together, they remind us that hope often begins with something simple; a helping hand, a listening ear, or a piece of wood that keeps someone above the water long enough to find their way home.
Support NFCC
Your support helps create stories like these. Whether you donate, volunteer, or spread the word, you are helping build a stronger future for generations to come.