2023 The Salvation Army of Georgia Annual Report

2023 ANNUAL REPORT

Serving Georgia since 1890

MISSION STATEMENT

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

A LETTER FROM THE DIVISIONAL LEADERS

As we reflect on the past year, we are filled with immense gratitude to share the remarkable accomplishments of The Salvation Army across Georgia. With unwavering dedication and the generous support of our friends, we have continued to serve our communities with compassion, integrity, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of those in need.

In every corner of our state, The Salvation Army has been a beacon of hope and a source of assistance for those facing adversity. Through our shelters, feeding programs, recovery services, and youth development initiatives, we have been able to offer a handup to those experiencing homelessness, hunger, addiction, and other challenges.

Your unwavering support throughout the year has enabled us to provide essential services to thousands of individuals and families across Georgia.

From sheltering the homeless and feeding the hungry to offering educational programs and assisting disaster survivors, your contributions have been instrumental in helping us fulfill our mission of "Doing the Most Good."

None of this would have been possible without the dedication and generosity of our volunteers, donors, and partners. Your willingness to give of your time, talent, and resources has been truly inspiring, and it is because of your support that we have been able to make such a meaningful difference in the lives of so many.

As we look ahead to the challenges and opportunities that the future may hold, we are confident that together, we will continue to uphold the values of compassion, service, and community that are at the heart of The Salvation Army.

In the love of Jesus,

Major Algerome Newsome

Divisional Commander

The Salvation Army of Georgia

Major Teresa Newsome Divisional Leader for Mission Advancement and Director of Officer Development

The Salvation Army of Georgia

THE SALVATION ARMY

AN INTERNATIONAL MOVEMENT

The Salvation Army was founded in 1865 when William Booth, a London minister, gave up the comfort of his pulpit and decided to take his message into the streets where it would reach the poor, the homeless, the hungry, and the destitute.

His original aim was to send converts to established churches of the day, but soon he realized that the poor did not feel comfortable or welcome in the pews of most of the churches and chapels of Victorian England. Moreover, regular churchgoers were appalled when these shabbily dressed, unwashed people came to join them in worship. So, Booth decided to found a church especially for them— the East London Christian Mission. The mission grew slowly, and Booth’s faith in God remained undiminished.

In May 1878, Booth summoned his son, Bramwell, and his good friend George Railton to read a proof of the Christian Mission’s annual report. At the top, it read: THE CHRISTIAN MISSION IS A VOLUNTEER ARMY. Bramwell strongly objected to this wording. He was not a volunteer; he was compelled to do God’s work. So, in a flash of inspiration, Booth crossed out “Volunteer” and wrote “Salvation.” The Salvation Army was born.

By the 1900s, the Army had spread around the world. The Salvation Army soon had officers and soldiers in 134 countries, including the United States of America. This well-organized yet flexible structure inspired many much-needed services: women’s social work, the first food depot, the first-day nursery, and the first Salvation Army missionary hospital. During World War II, The Salvation Army operated 3,000 service units for the armed forces, which led to the formation of the United Service Organizations (USO).

Today, The Salvation Army is stronger and more powerful than ever. Now, in over 136 countries and five continents worldwide, The Salvation Army continues to work where the need is greatest, guided by faith in God and love for all.

General William Booth

“While women weep, as they do now, I‘‘ll fight.

While little children go hungry, as they do now, I‘ll fight.

While men go to prison, in and out, in and out, as they do now, I‘ll fight.

While there is a drunkard left,

While there is a poor lost girl upon the streets,

While there remains one dark soul without the light of God,

I‘ll

fight—I‘ll fight to the very end!“

THE SALVATION ARMY IN GEORGIA

Since 1890, The Salvation Army has provided a strong and capable witness in the state of Georgia with a continuously expanding program. Now there are camping programs for underprivileged children and youth, emergency food, shelter, and assistance programs, Christmas toys and food for tens of thousands of our neediest neighbors, shelter for people experiencing homelessness, youth sports teams, gang prevention and intervention, infirmary care for the homeless, veterans services and ministry to military families, senior services and visitations, shelter, and services for pregnant and atrisk girls... and new service opportunities keep arising.

Today in Georgia, there are 24 Salvation Army Corps Community Centers, 24 Service Units, and 17 Service Centers that provide services in areas throughout the state, 37 Thrift Stores, two Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Centers, one Corps Salvage and Rehabilitation Center, three Boys and Girls Clubs, 11 emergency shelters, a state-wide disaster response program, a summer camp facility located in Jasper, GA, and numerous other programs and services.

Every year, the programs and services provided by the Salvation Army are in great demand. Continued financial support from the community is crucial through donations from individuals and corporations and funding from foundations and grants. The Salvation Army graciously accepts these gifts and responsibly shepherds them to the neighbors who need them most. Fiscal responsibility is steadfast; for every dollar donated, more than 82% goes directly to programs and services.

A CALL TO SERVE

The Salvation Army of Georgia‘s commitment to serving the vulnerable, regardless of background or circumstance, embodies the love of Christ to a world in need.

Whether offering rehabilitation programs, supporting families in crisis, or simply lending a helping hand, the Salvation Army's dedication to humanity shines brightly, inspiring hope and fostering positive change in the lives of countless individuals across Georgia.

1,017,000 people in Georgia were helped in 2023

RESILIENCE AND RELIEF IN GRIFFIN

Griffin, Georgia, a picturesque city nestled in the Atlanta Metropolitan Area, became the unexpected battleground for LaQuita Troutman and her neighbors when a series of tornadoes tore through their peaceful community. Life on Cherry Street, once idyllic, turned chaotic as the ominous sky and relentless winds unleashed devastation.

LaQuita vividly recalls the harrowing moment, "About 4:30 in the afternoon, I saw the sky go dark, and the wind started howling. My daughter was on the front porch, and I rushed her inside.”

The tornado's fury soon descended upon Cherry Street, ripping apart homes and uprooting trees. In the midst of the chaos, LaQuita and her daughter sought refuge in their home.

The relentless winds battered their sanctuary, forcing LaQuita and her daughter to huddle in a closet for safety. The storm's wrath collapsed a century-old tree onto LaQuita's neighbor's house, leaving it in ruins. Miraculously, LaQuita's family and neighbors emerged physically unharmed but emotionally shaken.

In Griffin, where rebuilding is underway, The Salvation Army continues to stand by the community, ensuring that no one is left behind.

There is still much repairing and restoring to do in Griffin. As the city heals, it takes solace in The Salvation Army's commitment to long-term support to address the specific needs of those impacted.

“We are counting our blessings that everyone is okay”

over 130 years, has embodied its mission to touch human lives at the point of greatest need. Be it a child needing guidance, a life seeking hope, or a community reeling from disaster, The Salvation Army remains a steadfast beacon of support.

Griffin's story is not just one of sudden destruction but also resilience, community, and the unwavering support of The Salvation Army. Always ready to help rebuild, restore, and reaffirm, The Salvation Army is there for those faced with adversity in their time of need.

$199,876 $7,176,081 $27,114,095

GEORGIA DIVISION

SERVICE STATISTIC HIGHLIGHTS

283,481

Nights of lodging provided

613,011

People were provided meals

18,302

People received a personal visit

25,859

People participated in music and art programs.

174,579

People participated in community centers

164,174

People provided with groceries and/or clothing

89,993

People received emergency assistance

149,787

Toys distributed through Angel Tree

A SHELTER IN THE STORM

In communities across Georgia, a silent threat lurks within the walls of homes, impacting the lives of countless individuals. Domestic abuse is a pervasive issue, affecting 1 in 4 women in the state each year. It's a sinister manifestation of power and control, an intimate partner exerting dominance over another, with forms ranging from physical and emotional to financial.

Yet, for many victims, the pain is hidden behind closed doors, invisible to outsiders, and often never shared with anyone. The victims of domestic abuse carry the weight of fear and isolation, and making the decision to seek help is one of the most challenging and terrifying choices they will ever make.

The Safe House is a sanctuary for those who find themselves in the midst of the storm, seeking refuge from the chaos that surrounds them. These women, living in constant fear for their lives and the lives of their children, often have no one to guide them out of their harrowing circumstances.

Escaping from a violent and threatening domestic situation is a daunting task, but within the walls of the Safe House, a transformation begins. The dedicated team at The Salvation Army provides shelter and strives to be a guiding light, pointing these brave women toward a path of success and a better life.

The goal is simple yet profound – to offer a safe place where they can rebuild, bloom, and flourish. It's a shelter from their storm, a place where the echoes of abuse are replaced with the empowering whispers of support, love, and guidance. In the name of Jesus, the Safe House stands ready to provide resources and a steadfast presence during their time of greatest need.

Amidst this darkness, there stands a beacon of hope – The Salvation Army's Warner Robins Safe House.

The stories that unfold within these walls are tales of resilience, courage, and transformation. Each woman who steps into the Safe House is not just seeking refuge; she's embarking on a journey toward a brighter future.

Through compassion, understanding, and unwavering support, The Salvation Army's Warner Robins Safe House becomes a catalyst for positive change in the lives of those who have endured so much.

Adrianna's journey to SafeHouse began with fear and uncertainty, as she found herself with nowhere to turn for help.

It was a lifeline thrown to her by a caring friend who, upon learning about the abuse Adrianna endured, shared information about the confidential support and protection offered at Safe House. Faced with the need to safeguard herself and her little girl, Adrianna courageously chose to seek refuge at the Safe House.

Gathering her daughter, she packed their meager belongings into the trunk of her car and set out for the haven that promised safety and solace.

As Adrianna crossed the threshold of the Safe House and entered a new world, she articulated her profound need for the program: "I really need this—I don't have anyone, I don't have a home, I don't have anything."

Yet, within the sanctuary of the Safe House, Adrianna discovered more than just physical shelter. She found a network of support that embraced her and her children, transforming strangers into a makeshift family.

“I love these people like family,” Adrianna expressed, encapsulating the profound impact of the Safe House on her life. In the midst of her vulnerability, the Safe House became a haven of understanding, compassion, and solidarity, providing Adrianna with the strength to rebuild her life and regain her sense of security.

“I love these people like family”

In the heart of Georgia, where the threat of domestic abuse lingers, The Salvation Army’s Safe House stands as a testament to the power of compassion, community, and the indomitable love of Christ shared with those in need.

Scan the QR code to view a video about The Salvation Army’s Warner Robins Safe House.

In the face of unexpected financial crises, thousands of hardworking individuals and families turn to The Salvation Army for support. Whether battling illness, at risk of losing their homes, or struggling to make ends meet, The Salvation Army provides a safety net offering shelter, transportation, and emergency financial assistance.

PROJECT SHARE, a groundbreaking initiative established in partnership with Georgia Power in 1985, stands as one of the earliest fuel funds in the United States. This collaborative effort addresses a spectrum of needs, including utility bills, housing, food, and medical necessities. Through the simple act of donating as little as a dollar via their Georgia Power bill payments, customers contribute to a fund that stays within their community, offering localized assistance to neighbors in need. Over the past 30 years, more than one million people in Georgia have benefited from the PROJECT SHARE program.

While Georgia Power's commitment to PROJECT SHARE is unwavering throughout the year, the company annually spotlights the initiative on December and January bills. Customers opting to enroll in the program can make a monthly donation of $1, $2, $5, or $10, seamlessly adding it to their bill payment.

In a testament to their dedication, Georgia Power matches these contributions at 150% of the donated amount. Since the inception of the PROJECT SHARE partnership, The Salvation Army and Georgia Power have jointly contributed over $79 million, offering crucial assistance to both Georgia Power customers and other neighbors in need.

PROJECT SHARE stands out as one of the most successful privately funded utility assistance programs in the United States, delivering approximately $2 million in aid to over 40,000 Georgians annually. Families undergoing sudden financial crises, especially those facing the threat of home instability due to disasters, find relief through this program, often preventing utility cut-offs or evictions.

The collaborative efforts of The Salvation Army and Georgia Power continue to exemplify the spirit of "Neighbors Helping Neighbors," making a significant impact on the lives of those they serve.

Scan the QR code to learn more about Project Share.

A Board Member’s Generous Compassion

When the shelves at The Salvation Army of Albany's food pantry echoed with the absence of peanut butter, it resonated with Patrick Collins, a dedicated advisory board member. The Salvation Army of Albany’s food pantry is crucial in addressing local community needs and relies heavily on wellstocked supplies to fulfill its mission.

At the heart of The Salvation Army's purpose lies a commitment to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human needs. This mission thrives on the generosity of volunteers and donors, who contribute time and resources to combat various societal challenges. Among these, food insecurity stands out, and local food pantries become the frontline soldiers in distributing reliable and nutritious nourishment to those in need.

When Captain Chris Thomas noticed the dwindling peanut butter reserves in the Albany food pantry, Patrick Collins, a peanut broker and board member, answered the call and exceeded all expectations. In a gesture of remarkable generosity, Collins provided not just one but two pallets of peanut butter for the food pantry.

Captain Chris Thomas expressed his astonishment, saying, "We were excited about that; to just have one pallet would be more than enough, and then when we [arrived] there were two whole pallets."

Peanut butter, a pantry staple known for its versatility and nutritional value, holds a special place in the fight against hunger.

Its rich blend of vitamins and extended shelf life make it a highly sought-after item.

"Peanut butter goes a long way," Captain Thomas explained, "you can make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, peanut butter crackers, and you can just eat it plain."

The Salvation Army of Albany remains steadfast in its commitment to serve the community, particularly in the realm of food provision. It is through the support of benevolent donors like Patrick Collins, who volunteer their time, talent, and treasure, that The Salvation Army's mission not only endures but flourishes, providing help and hope to those in need.

Disaster Relief

The Salvation Army has been at the forefront of extending aid and comfort to those affected by disasters since 1900, when it helped disaster survivors after a major hurricane hit Galveston, TX. In 2023, The Salvation Army's commitment to serving communities in times of crisis was particularly evident in Georgia, where three emergency disaster scenarios called for immediate response and assistance.

In mid-January, severe thunderstorms swept across north and central Georgia, unleashing a series of devastating EF2 and EF3 tornadoes. The Salvation Army of Georgia swiftly mobilized its resources to provide aid to affected areas where the impact was most severe: LaGrange, Greenville, and Griffin.

Then, in late March, an EF3 tornado struck West Point, GA, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The Salvation Army's dedicated teams worked tirelessly to assist residents with food, hydration, and emotional and spiritual care to those grappling with the disaster's aftermath.

In the fall, The Salvation Army again sprang into action, deploying mobile feeding units and disaster response teams to deliver vital aid to affected communities when Hurricane Idalia swept across south Georgia, causing widespread destruction and flooding.

Despite the diverse nature of each disaster, The Salvation Army's commitment to its core mission remained unwavering. Through the provision of meals, beverages, and emotional and spiritual care, The Salvation Army endeavored to bring hope and healing to survivors and first responders alike.

In the face of adversity, The Salvation Army's presence provides a beacon of light, offering reassurance and support to those grappling with the aftermath of tragedy. As the needs of survivors evolved, so too did The Salvation Army's response, ensuring that assistance was tailored to meet the unique challenges presented by each emergency situation.

The Salvation Army emergency disaster services continue to demonstrate the Army’s unwavering dedication to serving the most vulnerable in times of crisis with a focus on compassion and service.

Georgia Locations

Corps and More

Albany Corps Community Center

304 West Second Avenue Albany, GA 31702 (229) 435-1428

www.salvationarmyalbany.org

Athens Corps Community Center

484 Hawthorne Avenue Athens, GA 30606 (706) 543-2508

Social Service Office: (706) 543-5350

www.salvationarmyathens.org

Atlanta Bellwood Boys and Girls Club

777 Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy NW Atlanta, GA 30318 (404) 486-2765

www.salvationarmyatlanta.org

Atlanta International Corps 3771 Central Avenue Doraville, GA 30340 (404) 486-2820

www.salvationarmyatlanta.org

Atlanta Kroc Corps Community Center 967 Dewey Street SW Atlanta, GA 30310 (404) 638-7195

www.kroccenteratlanta.org

Atlanta Peachcrest Corps and Boys & Girls Club 3500 Sherrydale Lane Decatur, GA 30032 (404) 486-2870/(404) 486-2880

www.salvationarmyatlanta.org

Atlanta Red Shield Harbor Light Corps 469 Marietta Street, NW Atlanta, GA 30313 (404) 486-2700

www.salvationarmyatlanta.org

Atlanta Temple Corps 2090 North Druid Hills Road NE Atlanta, GA 30329 (404) 486-2800

www.salvationarmyatlanta.org

Augusta Kroc Corps Community Center 1833 Broad Street Augusta, GA 30904 (706) 364-5762

Social Service Office: (706) 826-7933

www.salvationarmyaugusta.org

Brunswick Corps Community Center 1623 Union Street Brunswick, GA 31520 (912) 265-9381

www.salvationarmybrunswick.org

Cartersville Corps Community Center 16 Felton Place Cartersville, GA 30120 (770)387-9555

www.salvationarmycartersville.org

Columbus Corps Community Center 5201 Warm Springs Rd. Columbus, GA 31909 (706) 561-9026

Social Service Office: (706) 327-0275

www.salvationarmycolumbusga.org

Dalton Corps Community Center 1109 North Thornton Avenue Dalton, GA 30720 (706) 278-3966

www.salvationarmydalton.org

Gainesville Corps Community Center 681 Dorsey Street Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 534-7589

www.salvationarmygainesville.org

Griffin Corps Community Center and Boys & Girls Club

725 Meriwether Street Griffin, GA 30224 (770) 412-6561

www.salvationarmygriffin.org

Jonesboro Citadel Corps

130 Spring Street Jonesboro, GA 30236 (770) 724-1680

www.salvationarmyatlanta.org

Gwinnett County Corps

3455 Sugarloaf Parkway Lawrenceville, GA 30044 (770) 724-1660

www.salvationarmyatlanta.org

Macon Corps Community Center 1955 Broadway Macon, GA 31206 (478) 746-8572

www.salvationarmymacon.org

Marietta Corps

202 Waterman Street SE Marietta, GA 30060 (770) 724-1640

www.salvationarmyatlanta.org

Rome Corps Community Center

310 East Second Avenue Rome, GA 30161 (706) 291-4745

www.salvationarmyrome.org

Savannah Corps Community Center

3000 Bee Road Savannah, GA 31404 (912) 352-8366

www.salvationarmysavannah.org

Thomasville Corps Community Center

500 North Madison Street Thomasville, GA 31792 (229) 226-3772

www.salvationarmythomasville.org

Valdosta Corps Community Center 320 Smithland Place Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 242-6440

www.salvationarmyvaldosta.org

Warner Robins Corps Community Center 96 Thomas Boulevard Warner Robins, GA 31903 (478) 922-7585

www.salvationarmywarnerrobins.org

Waycross Corps Community Center 401 Ethel Street Waycross, GA 31503 (912) 285-7237

www.salvationarmywaycross.org

William Booth Towers 1125 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 (404) 875-7495

Service Centers

Americus Service Center 204 North Prince Street Americus, GA 31709 (229) 924-5154 www.salvationarmyamericus.org

Bainbridge Service Center 600 Scott Street Bainbridge, GA 39818 (229) 243-7250 www.salvationarmybainbridge.org

Canton Service Center 251 Marietta Rd Canton, GA 30114 (770) 720-4316 www.salvationarmycanton.org

Carrolton Service Center 115 Lake Carroll Boulevard Carrollton, GA 30112 (770) 830-0120 www.salvationarmycarrollton.org

Covington Service Center 5193 Washington Street Covington, GA 30014 (770) 786-2107 www.salvationarmycovington.org

Douglas Service Center 110 South Gaskin Avenue Douglas, GA 31533 (912) 825-8041 www.salvationarmydouglas.org

Dublin Service Center 2378 U.S. Hwy 80 Dublin, GA 31533 (478) 275-7336 www.salvationarmydublin.org

Elberton Service Center 262 North McIntosh Street Elberton, GA 30635 (706) 283-1804 www.salvationarmyelberton.org

Jackson Service Center 178 North Benton Street Jackson, GA 30233 (770) 775-2940 www.salvationarmyjackson.org

LaGrange Service Center 202 Church St. LaGrange, GA 30240 (706) 845-0197 www.salvationarmylagrange.org

McDonough Service Center 401 Racetrack Road McDonough, GA 30252 (770) 957-8868 www.salvationarmymcdonough.org

Milledgeville Service Center 461 East Hancock Street Milledgeville, GA 31061 (478) 452-6940 www.salvationarmymilledgeville.org

Newnan Service Center 670 Jefferson Street Newnan, GA 30263 (770) 251-8181 www.salvationarmynewnan.org

St. Marys Service Center 1909 Osborne Road St. Marys, GA 31558 (912) 882-2200 www.salvationarmystmarys.org

Tifton Service Center 1205 US Highway 82 East Tifton, GA 31794 (229) 386-1503 www.salvationarmytifton.org

Toccoa Service Center 306 E. Franklin Street Toccoa, GA 30577 (706) 886-5293 www.salvationarmytoccoa.org

Vidalia Service Center 220 Mose Coleman Dr. Vidalia, GA 30474 (912) 538-8203 www.salvationarmyvidalia.org