Local partners come together to help those suffering in dangerous heat
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - After a severe heat wave hit the CSRA this week, some local partners are teaming up to help those suffering in the dangerous temperatures.
We’ve seen temperatures hit the triple digits and given advice on how to safely enjoy the outdoors while also being aware of what heat-related illnesses look like.
For those who don’t have a place they can call home, being in the heat is inevitable.
We met up with a couple of organizations that are coming together to give people a place to go at all times of the day.
The Salvation Army’s Center of Hope is seeing an increase in people coming through their doors.
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They serve as the only overnight family shelter in the area.
“There are more and more mothers and fathers and children staying with us at the Center of Hope and so our goal is to let the community know we can’t do this without their . While this time of year we see an increase in clients, we see a dip in donations, and we really do need the help of the community,” said Janelys Villalta, marketing and PR manager.
They offer food, clothes, casework, job skills training and a place for people to rest their heads at night.
With the rising temperatures, the Center of Hope is partnering with a day shelter called The Love Center.
“They are helping us in shuttling our clients that don’t have anywhere to go during the day. After checkout they come and pick them up during the day, there’s AC and activities,” said Villalta.
The Love Center is a non-profit organization that has been around for eight years.
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Wayne Jordan, general manager of The Love Center, says they’re happy to work with the Center of Hope.
“We’re able to stand with someone that’s able to and willing to sacrifice and reach out to the people to do what’s necessary to have a common goal achieved,” said Jordon.
Jordan says they work with people to help get them back into society.
They provide food, counseling, bible study, case management and basic essentials.
“We try to instill in a person that there is still someone that cares about them. there’s still someone who will reach out to do whatever they can that God allows them to do for you. We show love,” said Jordan.
Both the Center of Hope and Love Center say they are always in need of donations whether it’s monetary to their services and keep their lights on or things like food, water and hygiene products.
They also rely heavily on volunteers.
For more ways to help, visit the Salvation Army and Love Center websites.
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