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.

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