Governor Nathan Deal Proclaims Salvation Army Week in Georgia
Wednesday, October 21st, 2015
Governor Nathan Deal has proclaimed Oct 19-25, 2015 as The Salvation Army Week in Georgia in recognition of the 125th anniversary of The Salvation Army in Georgia.
“The Salvation Army has been in the state of Georgia for 125 years and is one of those organizations that I take great pride in.” said Governor Deal, adding, “They probably represent the best return on a charitable contribution of any organization I can think of. For those who are the contributors, they can be assured that they are getting a great return on their investment … that their contributions to The Salvation Army actually Do the Most Good.”
In 1890, twenty-six years after an army burned, besieged, and pillaged the city of Atlanta leaving nothing but flaming ruins in its wake, another army besieged Atlanta. However, the weapons of The Salvation Army were not swords and muskets, but the Sword of the Spirit and the Word of God.
The Salvation Army of Augusta Area Commander Major Tony Perez said, “For 125 years, The Salvation Army red shield in Georgia has been the symbol of commitment to helping people in crisis. Wherever people suffer from hunger, poverty, hopelessness or injustice - The Salvation Army is there to help, always without discrimination. Thank you to all the donors, officers, volunteers, and staff throughout the years who’ve made that possible.”
Today in Georgia there are 26 Salvation Army Corps Community Centers, 25 Service Units and 15 Service Centers that provide services in areas throughout the state, 35 Family Stores, 2 Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Centers including one in Augusta, 4 Alcohol and Drug Recovery Centers, 3 Boys and Girls Clubs, 19 emergency shelters, a state-wide disaster response program, and numerous other programs and services.
Last year in Georgia The Salvation Army provided over 700,000 meals, more than 300,000 nights of lodging, and 200,000 toys for those in need. In addition, more than 1,700 boys and girls were provided a summer camp experience at The Salvation Army’s Camp Grandview in scenic Jasper, Georgia.
Every year the services and programs 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 neighbors who need them most. Fiscal responsibility at The Salvation Army is steadfast; for every dollar donated, more than 83% goes directly to local programs and services.