More than 1,000 refugee children and families in Clarkston will receive free food until July 24 from Marietta native Garland Jones through the Bountiful Bags organization.

Jones, 16, was awarded a $500 Get Ur Good On grant, which is given directly to young people seeking to improve their communities. His project is to have a fund-raiser and food drive for Bountiful Bags through July 24. The nonprofit provides food for refugee children and pre-k to fifth-graders and their families in Clarkston.

Jones, youth leader of the Bountiful Bags Project, was one of 40 youth chosen worldwide by Youth Serving America to receive grants supported by singer and TV star Miley Cyrus. He says that serving others is rewarding.

“Each bag that we pack for a child and their family is special and I am honored to be a part of a project that is making a difference in other people’s lives,” he said.

During July, Jones and the nonprofit are meeting at Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church in Stone Mountain on Tuesdays and Thursdays to fill bags with food for 15 families in Clarkston. The refugees have fled war-torn countries and persecution with almost nothing.  

A monthlong fund-raiser and food drive will culminate with a free International Fashion Show at Shallowford Presbyterian Church on July 25. Participants are asked to donate nonperishable food or books. Donations can be made at www.crownedforvictory.org.