The Salvation Army is partnering with other agencies and hosting a monthly distribution service to help the homeless by distributing goods alongside critical casework and resources.
The first event was held March 31 on the lawn of the Center of Hope Shelter located at 1384 Greene Street and future distributions will occur on the last Friday of each month.
The City of Augusta and the Parks and Recreation Department, Economic Opportunity Authority, the Richmond County Marshal’s office, Housing & Economic Development, and the members of the Augusta Homeless Task Force are participating in the initiative.
According to Major Jonathan Raymer, the area commander for The Salvation Army, homeless people who attend the distributions not only receive food and clothing, they are also able to get acquainted with agencies that provide services such as rent and utilities assistance so they can get off the streets permanently.
Raymer says that it is vital that the community at large help the initiative by donating items such as food and clothing directly to the Salvation Army instead of giving money to homeless panhandlers.
“Because our community is so kind, they will see a person in need and want to help them where they are. However, when someone gives to people on the side of the road, they might help them today, but it doesn’t help them tomorrow. Our neighbors need food and clothing, but they also need a plan to get out of homelessness.” Raymer said.
Derek Dugan, director of development for The Salvation Army puts it even more bluntly and says giving money directly to the homeless almost ensures they will remain homeless.
“You’re not doing them a favor. You may be feeding them for a day or feeding an addiction. (The Salvation Army) has programs that provide enough aid that no one has to remain homeless, unless they really, really want to,” Dugan said.
The Salvation Army, which began operations in Augusta in 1891, runs the Center For Hope Shelter, the largest homeless shelter in the CSRA, and does not charge for any of its services.
To make a donation, simply visit The Salvation Army’s website.
Scott Hudson is the Senior Investigative Reporter and Editorial Page Editor for The Augusta Press. Reach him at scott@theaugustapress.com
