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2024 The Salvation Army of Georgia Annual Report

2024 The Salvation Army of Georgia Annual Report

2024 The Salvation Army of Georgia Annual Report

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2024

ANNUAL REPORT

Georgia

Division

Serving Georgia since 1890


Salvation Army,

The

international movement,

an

an evangelical part of the

is

Christian Church.

Universal

ministry is motivated

Its

the love of God.

by

mission is to preach the Gospel of

Its

Christ and to meet human

Jesus

in His name without

needs

discrimination.

MISSION STATEMENT

Its message is based on the Bible.

2


A LETTER FROM THE DIVISIONAL LEADERS

As we look back on 2024, we are reminded

once again of the incredible power of

compassion and generosity. This year, The

Salvation Army of Georgia has stood firm in

its mission to preach the Gospel of Jesus

Christ and to serve those in need, offering

hope and support to individuals and families

facing hardship. Whether responding to

natural disasters, providing food and shelter,

or helping struggling families find stability,

our work has been possible because of you.

Your support—through financial gifts,

volunteer hours, and heartfelt advocacy—has

transformed lives. In the wake of Hurricanes

Debbie and Helene, your generosity allowed

us to provide emergency relief to those

affected. Through the success of the Red

Kettle Campaign and the Angel Tree

program, thousands of families experienced

the joy of the holiday season.

And as we celebrated milestones like our

75th anniversary serving the Dalton

community, our 100th anniversary serving

the Valdosta community, and our 125th

anniversary serving the Macon community,

we were reminded of the deep and lasting

impact we’ve made together across the great

state of Georgia.

Each meal served, each family housed, and

each person given a second chance is a

testament to what we can accomplish when

we unite in service. As we look ahead, we do

so with gratitude and renewed commitment,

knowing that with your continued support,

The Salvation Army will remain a beacon of

hope for years to come.

Thank you for being a vital part of this

mission. Together, we are Doing the

Most Good.

.

In the love of Jesus,

Major John Murphy

Divisional Commander

The Salvation Army of Georgia

Major Cristina Murphy

Divisional Leader for Mission

Advancement and Officer Development

3




Camp Grandview

Each summer, The Salvation Army of Georgia’s

Camp Grandview opens its doors to over 1,000

children from across the state, offering them a lifechanging

experience filled with adventure,

friendship, and personal growth. For many of these

children, a week at Camp Grandview is more than

just a break from their daily routines—it’s an

opportunity to explore the outdoors, build selfconfidence,

and create memories that last a lifetime.

Nestled in the scenic foothills of Georgia, Camp

Grandview provides a safe, structured

environment where children can enjoy the simple

joys of childhood, many for the first time. With

carefully planned activities designed to encourage

teamwork, creativity, and personal achievement,

campers discover new interests and talents that

help shape their futures.

For many children, Camp Grandview is the first time

they have ever gone canoeing, swan in a pool, or

hiked through the woods. The excitement of

paddling across a lake, feeling the splash of cool

water on a hot summer day, or conquering a nature

trail alongside new friends fosters a sense of

accomplishment and winder. Experiencing the beauty

of nature firsthand—the rustling of leaves in the

wind, the sight of a sunset over the lake, and the

chorus of crickets at night—creates a deep

appreciation for the world around them.

6


Throughout their time at camp, children participate

in structured activities that promote leadership,

teamwork, and confidence. Whether catching their

first fish, participating in arts and crafts, or singing

songs around a campfire, each moment is designed to

help children develop new skills, gain independence,

and feel a sense of achievement. Under the guidance

of caring and trained counselors, campers are

encouraged to try new things, overcome fears, and

believe in themselves.

At the heart of Camp Grandview’s impact is the power

of friendship. Children from diverse backgrounds come

together to share experiences, play games, and support

one another. For some, it’s the first time they’ve met

peers outside their own neighborhoods. The bonds

formed at camp often extend beyond the summer,

giving children a sense of belonging and connection

that continues long after they leave.

One of the most significant aspects of Camp

Grandview is the opportunity for children to receive

three nutritious meals a day. Many campers come from

homes where food insecurity is a reality, making

regular, well-balanced meals a true highlight of their

camp experience. Mealtimes at Camp Grandview are

more than just nourishment—they’re moments of

shared laughter, storytelling, and encouragement,

reinforcing the importance of community and care.

Beyond the fun and adventure, Camp Grandview

instills values that shape a child’s future. Through

daily devotions and character-building exercises,

campers learn about kindness, perseverance, and

faith, leaving camp with not only cherished memories

but also valuable life lessons.

For thousands of children, Camp Grandview is more

than just a summer getaway—it’s a life-changing

experience that opens doors to new possibilities.

Thanks to the generosity of donors and supporters,

The Salvation Army of Georgia continues to provide

this incredible opportunity, ensuring that every child,

regardless of their circumstances, has the chance to

explore, grow, and dream.

7




Finding Hope

Alex’s Journey from Homelessness to Higher Education

providing their family with stability and a place

to call home. But for Alex, the impact went

beyond a roof over his head.

At just six years old, Alex Moore’s world turned

upside down. His family was evicted from their

home in North Augusta, South Carolina, forcing

them into a cycle of uncertainty—bouncing

between hotel rooms, friends’ couches, and, at

times, their car. As the seasons changed, so did

their struggles. Cold winter nights became

unbearable, and the scorching summer heat was

relentless. Eventually, they found refuge at The

Salvation Army’s Center of Hope.

“The biggest thing about the Center of Hope was

that families could stay together,” Alex recalls.

“That was a major concern for us. We were just

kids, and my sister was still so young. We didn’t

know any other place where we could stay warm

and be together as a family.”

With the support of The Salvation Army, Alex’s

mother was able to secure Section 8 housing,

“As a kid, I wasn’t doing well in school. I missed

a lot of days because I was worried about where

we were going to sleep or how we were going to

survive,” he shares. “But having a stable home

changed everything. I didn’t have to worry

anymore, and that allowed me to focus on

school.”

That shift in focus made all the difference. With

determination and a newfound sense of security,

Alex began to excel academically. Now, he

stands on the brink of a remarkable achievement

—ranked fourth in his high school class and

preparing to graduate in May 2024. Even more

incredible, he has earned a full scholarship to the

University of Chicago, a dream he once thought

was out of reach.

“I don’t know if I’d be here today without The

Salvation Army,” he says. “They gave us a way to

get back on our feet and showed us that

opportunities were still out there.”

Alex’s journey is a testament to resilience and

the transformative power of community support.

His story is one of countless examples of how

The Salvation Army provides not just

immediate relief but also a foundation for longterm

success. With each family helped, with

each child given a chance to thrive, The

Salvation Army continues to fulfill its mission—

offering hope where it’s needed most.

10


A New Beginning - a Grateful Heart

The Center of Hope provided more than just a

roof over her head. It gave her stability, a place

to regroup and plan for what came next. "Food? I

didn’t have to worry about that. Shelter? I didn’t

have to worry about that. Even the basics, like

soap and towels—they had all that I needed."

Pearline Harris never imagined she would be

without a home. She grew up in Warrenton,

Georgia, a small town east of Augusta, where she

built a life for herself.

But when she lost her job, everything changed.

"Everything else went down the drain," Pearline

recalled. "I couldn't pay the rent, and I found

myself bouncing from place to place. That just

wasn’t for me."

With the support of The Salvation Army,

Pearline got back on her feet. Today, she is

employed and spends her time volunteering at

the very place that once lifted her up. "Whatever

they ask me to do, I do it," she said with a smile.

"Giving back and helping people out really, and

truly, makes you feel good. I’m giving back

because someone once gave to me."

Pearline hopes others will continue supporting

The Salvation Army, ensuring that people facing

hardships today receive the same help she once

did. "They need it now, just like I needed it

then," she said. "If you have time, if you have

money or goods—please donate. Every bit makes

a difference"

With nowhere else to turn, Pearline made a

decision that would change her life—she walked

through the doors of The Salvation Army’s

Center of Hope in Augusta, Georgia.

"I didn’t know what it was about," she admitted.

"But it gave me an opportunity to focus on my

future, and that’s what has helped me be where I

am today."

11


helping to prevent utility disconnections and

evictions for families in crisis.

For thousands of hardworking individuals and

families facing unexpected financial crises,

The Salvation Army serves as a vital safety

net—offering emergency financial assistance,

shelter, and transportation to those in need.

Whether battling illness, at risk of losing

their homes, or struggling to make ends meet,

many turn to The Salvation Army for support

in times of hardship.

As a further testament to its dedication,

Georgia Power matches customer donations at

150%, amplifying the program’s impact. Since

the initiative began, Project Share has provided

over $85 million in critical assistance and

delivered $2.3 million last year to support

nearly 20,000 Georgians.

In 1985, Georgia Power and The Salvation Army

joined forces to launch Project Share, one of the

earliest fuel fund programs in the United States.

What began as a simple way to help customers in

need has since evolved into a comprehensive

assistance initiative addressing utility bills, housing,

food, and medical necessities. Through a small

monthly donation—just $1, $2, $5, or $10—Georgia

Power customers contribute to a fund that directly

supports those in their local communities. Since its

inception in 1985, over one million Georgians have

received assistance through Project Share.

While Georgia Power’s commitment to Project

Share remains steadfast year-round, the company

highlights the program during the year-end giving

season, encouraging more people to join this lifechanging

effort through radio spots, social media

posts, and on customer bills. Customers who enroll

in the program can rest assured that their

contributions are making an immediate impact,

From assisting families recovering from natural

disasters to helping seniors keep their homes warm

in the winter, Project Share continues to be one of

the most successful privately funded utility

assistance programs in the nation. Thanks to the

generosity of Georgia Power customers and the

dedicated partnership with The Salvation Army,

this initiative embodies the true spirit of

"Neighbors Helping Neighbors."

Scan the QR code

to learn more about

Project Share.

12


A Servant’s Heart

Jim and Marsha Kaufmann have been married for

54 years. For 22 of those years, they’ve volunteered

with The Salvation Army. They’ve responded to so

many disasters that they’ve lost count. From

Gainesville, Georgia, they’ve been deployed to

many weather-related events and were in Valdosta

last year for Hurricane Idalia relief.

“My father was a Salvation Army officer,” said

Marsha. “After he passed away and Jim and I

retired, I asked him if he wanted to do

something to honor Dad...One thing led to

another, and here we are.”

Jim, a long-time law enforcement officer, and

Marsha, a high school secretary, say they love serving.

Jim and Martha are accustomed to disaster

survivors asking why they volunteer, and their

answer is simple. “We love being the hands and

feet of Jesus,” says Marsha.

They say the most challenging part about

disaster relief is when they leave.

“At two weeks, when we have to go home, it

breaks our heart,” said Marsha. “We just want

to stay and help.”

The long hours on their feet serving meals to

others don’t bother this couple. They are always

grateful when they get home, where they say they

are reminded of their blessings, and they happily

remain on standby for their next deployment.

“Both of us have a servant’s heart,” said Marsha.

“I think that is one of our spiritual gifts...we tell

everybody that we do this to help you, but the

truth is, someday, it could be us.”

“We will be ready,” smiled Marsha. “We will

keep a bag packed, and when we get that phone

call, we will be ready to go out the door, and off

we’ll go.”

13


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. As a

trusted leader in disaster relief, The Salvation Army of

Georgia provides immediate and long-term assistance

to individuals and communities impacted by natural

and man-made disasters. Whether responding to

hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, or fires, our dedicated

teams of officers, staff, and volunteers work tirelessly

to provide food, hydration, shelter, emotional and

spiritual care, and other critical services.

In 2024, when Hurricanes Debbie and Helene struck

southern Georgia in August and September, The

Salvation Army mobilized canteens (mobile feeding

units) to provide over 20,000 meals, snacks, and drinks

to survivors, first responders, and volunteers. In

addition to emergency feeding, we assisted families

with temporary shelter, clean-up kits, and financial

support to help them begin the recovery process.

A significant milestone in 2024 was the generous donation

of The Salvation Army’s 25th disaster response vehicle

donated by corporate partner FedEx.

This new invaluable contribution strengthens our ability to

deploy quickly in times of crisis, ensuring that critical aid

reaches those in need as efficiently as possible. This emergency

disaster rapid response vehicle will be strategically located at

The Salvation Army’s St. Marys location. The continued

support of partners like FedEx enables The Salvation Army of

Georgia to expand its disaster relief capabilities and enhance

its readiness for future emergencies.

Thanks to the generosity of donors and the dedication of our

disaster response teams, The Salvation Army continues to be a

trusted source of relief, resilience, and recovery for those

facing disaster across Georgia.

14


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

15

Georgia Locations


Twenty-four hours a day, every

day of the year, The Salvation

Army provides care and

support to Georgians in need.

THE SALVATION ARMY GEORGIA DIVISION

1000 Center Place

www.salvationarmygeorgia.org

Norcross, GA 30093

/TheSalvationArmyGeorgia

@TSAGeorgia

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