It All Started with a Sandwich: The Story Behind the Mission

When people think of life-changing moments, they might imagine bold declarations or sweeping actions. But for Karen Olson, the founder of Family Promise, it started with something far simpler—a sandwich.

In 1981, Olson was a marketing executive in New York City. Like many others, she often passed individuals experiencing homelessness on her commute. One day, she decided to do something different. She packed sandwiches and brought them to a woman she’d seen sitting on the street outside the train station. That single act of compassion sparked a conversation—and eventually a movement. From that moment on, Karen continued delivering food and building relationships with people experiencing homelessness. What she discovered would forever change the trajectory of her life and, ultimately, the lives of thousands of families across the United States.

That simple ham and cheese sandwich became the seed for Family Promise, a national nonprofit organization now serving more than 200 communities in 43 states. And ten years ago, that same vision led to the founding of Family Promise of Cobb County, an affiliate dedicated to serving families experiencing homelessness in Cobb County, Georgia.

How a Sandwich Became a Shelter Movement

Let’s break it down:

Karen Olson = founder of Family Promise

Sandwich = catalyst for empathy

Empathy = sustained outreach

Sustained outreach = organized volunteer network

Organized volunteer network = national movement to end family homelessness

Family Promise began with one volunteer network in Union County, New Jersey. As Karen began talking with people experiencing homelessness, she learned something surprising: families with children were a rapidly growing segment of the homeless population, yet there were few services designed to support them. Shelters were often full, unsafe, or unavailable to families staying together.

Determined to meet this overlooked need, Olson gathered a group of volunteers and launched the first Interfaith Hospitality Network—a collaborative effort of local congregations that rotated weekly to provide shelter, meals, and hospitality to families in crisis. The model was simple yet powerful: community members opened their doors and hearts to those who needed temporary support. The impact was immediate.

Soon, other communities began replicating the model. By 1986, Family Promise was officially formed as a national nonprofit, and the movement spread from coast to coast. Today, the Family Promise model continues to grow, proving that small acts of kindness, when multiplied, can transform entire communities.

The Cobb County Chapter: 10 Years of Community, Compassion, and Change

Fast forward to 2014. Inspired by the national movement and aware of the rising needs in their own backyard, a group of dedicated individuals in Cobb County came together to bring Family Promise to our community. That same year, Family Promise of Cobb County (FPCC) officially opened its doors.

Since then, Family Promise of Cobb County has supported more than 187 families—including over 380 children—on their journey from homelessness to housing stability. Through a rotational shelter model that utilizes congregational partnerships, FPCC has created a safe, stable, and supportive environment where families can regain control of their lives and plan for long-term success.

At the heart of FPCC is community engagement. Volunteers cook meals, set up temporary housing, offer job training, and lend a listening ear. Our case manager, Louise Sterling works closely with each family to identify their strengths and map a path to permanent housing. Most importantly, the program keeps families together, preserving the bond that is so essential for healing from the trauma of homelessness and rebuilding hope.

10 years later, the same core belief that inspired Karen Olson—the belief that every family deserves a home —continues to guide FPCC’s work each and every day.

Luncheon with a Legacy: Celebrating the Mission on May 10

After a decade of service for Family Promise of Cobb County, what better way to honor that milestone than with a Sold-Out Luncheon on May 10? The event will celebrate the impact of FPCC, highlight the stories of families who have transitioned out of homelessness, and inspire the community to remain engaged in this vital work.

While the in-person seats are all taken, the spirit of the event will be shared across our social media channels, so be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for real-time updates, photos, and stories from the celebration on May 10.

And as we gather to honor this legacy, it’s important to remember: It all started with a sandwich.

Why This Story Still Matters Today

The sandwich was never just about food. It was about connection, dignity, and the belief that no one should be invisible. That belief remains the driving force behind Family Promise of Cobb County.

In 2024, homelessness continues to affect families in alarming numbers. Rising housing costs, unexpected job loss, medical bills, and domestic violence all contribute to the risk of losing stable housing. In Cobb County alone, hundreds of children are enrolled in school while living in cars, motels, or doubled-up with other families.

Family Promise offers more than shelter. We offer a pathway to independence. With the support of our volunteers, donors, community partners, and local congregations, we help families navigate the toughest moments of their lives with compassion and practical resources.

Get Involved: Be Part of the Ongoing Story

Just like that ham and cheese sandwich, your actions—no matter how small—can change lives.

💛 Donate to support families experiencing homelessness

Your gift can help cover housing costs, provide meals, support case management, and so much more.

👉 Give now at www.fpcobb.org/give

🙌 Volunteer your time and talents

Whether it’s cooking dinner, mentoring a parent, or helping with transportation, we rely on volunteers to keep our programs running. Find opportunities to give back on our website.

📱 Follow us on social media

Stay up-to-date with family success stories, volunteer spotlights, and upcoming events. Be sure to tune in for highlights from the May 10 luncheon!

Final Thoughts

Sometimes, the most extraordinary stories begin with the simplest gestures. Karen Olson didn’t plan to start a movement when she handed someone a sandwich. But by listening, caring, and acting, she sparked a chain reaction of compassion that continues to ripple across the nation.

At Family Promise of Cobb County, we carry that torch forward every day. With your help—whether through a donation, your time, or even just sharing our mission—we can continue transforming lives.

Because sometimes… it all starts with a sandwich.

📍 Support the mission today: www.fpcobb.org/give

📅 Don’t forget: Our sold-out luncheon is May 10—follow us on social for coverage!

❤️ Together, we can end family homelessness—one family at a time.