Augusta, GA
‘Send Relief Serve Tour’ takes first multi-city stop to serve CSRA
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Hundreds of people lent a helping hand in Augusta from local churches and other volunteer groups.
This weekend wraps up their first stop in a multi-city ‘Send Relief Serve Tour’.
Around 800 volunteers were helping in Augusta this weekend some were even from more than 10 different states as far as Indiana, Missouri, and Texas.
Across the CSRA there were 60 teams at 39 sites giving back to those in need.
Even though many of them weren’t from here they were happy to give back.
Hundreds of hands not missing a minute to help every corner of the community; from renovating schools and churches, to building a playground and fences for a foster home. As well as offering free dental care, hosting a block party, and even feeding neighborhoods.
Even Mark Richt, former University of Georgia Coach, showed out this weekend, “It’s basically an organization that, you know, in the name of Jesus tries to meet community issues, crises, poverty, whatever it may be, meet people where they need it and help their physical needs and mental needs and spiritual needs as well.”
While some came from out of state, it meant most to those a difference in their own backyard.
“There’s a van back there and it has a grill on the back of the van. That’s where we’re making some hamburgers for people and giving them out for free. And it’s just a way to show the love of Jesus to people, a really practical way that we can do that,” said volunteer, Baker Brown.
People all across the CSRA were receiving love from hundreds of volunteers, including Garrett Elementary school, where two of their teacher lounges were renovated.
“It was more than what I expected so I was overwhelmed. And I know that my teachers are going to be overwhelmed as well,” said said Stacey Walk, Principal at Garrett Elementary School.
Send Relief hopes that the widespread acts of service was just the beginning of what Augusta could do in the future.
“Our hope is that what happens this weekend is that the local leaders here in Augusta and churches will just take the ball and run with it. This could be an annual thing in Augusta, but we don’t have to be the one leader. This is just something that we’ve done for the first time with the idea that it can be multiplied through the churches for years to come. That’s our hope,” said Bryant Wright, Send Relief President.
They held a celebration for all of the volunteers this evening before they leave and go to the next city on their seven city tour. Taking their impact around the country to have long lasting effects for the future.
Copyright 2024 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
Augusta, GA
10th annual Juneteenth Augusta Festival draws crowds despite heat
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – The 10th annual Juneteenth Augusta Festival brought families to the Augusta Fairgrounds on Friday despite the muggy heat.
Cultural and community-focused events, live music performances and food trucks were available at the celebration.
Tonia Hill, attending the Juneteenth celebration, said she loves the holiday and is supporting the community, though she acknowledged the weather conditions.
“I love Juneteenth. And I’m supporting everybody. It’s hot. It’s hot. It’s hot,” Hill said.
The festival runs until 10 p.m.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
Augusta, GA
Augusta Dream Center sees surge in families needing food as summer begins
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – The Augusta Dream Center is seeing more families turn to its food pantry this summer as children lose access to school lunches.
Organizations like the Augusta Dream Center see a surge in families who relied on school lunches during the academic year, according to Hallie Kohan, assistant director.
“We see a lot more families that have young kids who are in need that simply don’t have those meals they are normally getting,” Kohan said. “We see an influx of families that come through.”
Demand is up, but the food supply is not keeping pace.
“Right now we are having some food distribution issues so while we are seeing an increase in families, we are seeing a decrease in the amount of food coming through our doors,” Kohan said.
The center is asking the community to host food drives or donate kid-friendly items such as mac and cheese and oatmeal.
Every Sunday the Dream Center opens its doors for a hot meal, serving as many as 120 people.
“Families can come in and get their hot meal. They sit down, it’s dignified, it’s a diner,” Kohan said. “It’s a welcoming experience for kids to come in and not feel like they are in need.”
No paperwork is required to receive help.
“Just because you think someone is in a great situation, in today’s economy you never know,” Kohan said. “It could be your neighbor, mom, or best friend.”
The Augusta Dream Center food pantry is open Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to noon and Thursdays from 5 to 6 p.m. Hot meals are served Sundays from 5 to 6 p.m.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
Augusta, GA
Progress continues on James Brown Linear Park in downtown Augusta
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Construction continues on the James Brown Linear Park in downtown Augusta, with ceiling tiles now installed inside the park structures.
The tiles feature designs showcasing the Godfather of Soul from different years in his career.
According to the city, the completed park will include an interactive water feature that will “dance” to Brown’s greatest hits. A statue of the music icon will return to a new stage at the park.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
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