Salvation Army Center of Hope asks for community help as demand hits new high
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Inflation hits just about everybody’s wallet these days. That impact also reaches the Salvation Army Center of Hope. Staff say the demand is setting records.
The Center of Hope says it’s in desperate need of help. Not only are more people coming through their doors, rising food costs are challenging the budget.
"Typically around this time of the year, where the temperatures aren’t really hot or cold, we see a little bit of numbers falling down. But this year, we’re actually seeing those numbers go up.” said Janelys Villalta, Marketing & PR Manager, Augusta Salvation Army.
In May, the Center of Hope saw 2,705 people. That’s nearly 300 more than April.
"Part of it, we believe, is because Mercy Ministries closed down at the beginning of May.” said Villalta.
But, Villalta believes, it’s not just about a different resource closing.
"The face of homelessness is changing. What we’re now actually seeing is women and children - families. Something a lot of people don’t realize is that two-thirds of people that we serve are fully-employed.” said Villalta.
Right now, the Center of Hope averages 218 meals per day, which is more than their yearly average.
"We’ve exceeded our food budget for this fiscal year, so we’re spending more this year than we did last year for food.” said Villalta.
While providing clothes, or even a hot meal, Villalta says the main goal is to help people get back into housing. Commissioner Jordan Johnson says that can be a challenge.
“At the end of the day, the largest need in our community is affordable housing.” said Jordan Johnson, Augusta-Richmond County Commissioner.
He says the city is trying to help too.
"We passed the tiny home ordinance and the private developers are coming to the table.” said Johnson.
"They are coming to us on their worst days and we just want to help them.” said Villalta.
The Salvation Army encourages you to give bus ticket vouchers to anyone you see in need. Valid for one ride only, the ticket takes the rider to the Center of Hope. You find these at the Kroc Center.
If you cannot donate, staff hope you will consider volunteering your time. If your group or church wishes to assist, Villalta says host your event at the Center of Hope. She says they want to make the facility a "One Stop Shop" for anyone in need. Visit this link to contact them.
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