AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – More than 700 people enjoyed a free Thanksgiving meal in the comfort of their own homes Thursday.

The Vineyard Church of Augusta delivered 730 hot meals to people in local public housing communities as part of their “Dinner of Love” program.

The initiative targets those who are sick and shut-in and the elderly.

Pastor Mary Margarey Leroy said the church works with the Augusta Housing Authority to identify people in need.

“Oh my goodness it’s why we breath it’s our whole reason of why we exist is to serve others you know we’re a faith-based organization we’re a church so you know Jesus is our model and he said ‘I came to serve and not to be served’ and that is that’s our life blood,” Leroy said.

The church also distributed 275 Thanksgiving meal kits last Saturday.

Vineyard Church of Augusta operates a food pantry that is open Mondays from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Black Friday is here, and customers are ready to shop some big sales.

We visited several big stores across the Augusta area, where large groups of people were lining up to shop sales.

Santa even made an appearance at Cabela’s in Augusta.

How to stay safe while shopping

The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office says it’s going to have deputies all over the county and around businesses.

But they are urging you to make sure you, your car and your items are all secure and away from potential dangers.

“Make sure if you’re going in, you’re buying packages, you’ve got bags. I would think about trying to get these packages and these items home as soon as possible. I wouldn’t leave them in the trunk of my vehicle. I definitely wouldn’t leave them in plain view inside my vehicle,” said Col. Bo Johnson with the sheriff’s office.

Johnson says for those who wear purses or other bags, make sure they’re in front of you at all times, not just on your shoulder.

Also remember to be aware of your surroundings when walking to and from a store and when on the roads.

Copyright 2025 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – The Salvation Army of Augusta held its annual free Thanksgiving dinner Thursday, with volunteers taking time away from their families to serve those in need.

The organization estimated serving nearly 200 plates during the event, which brought together volunteers and community members in the Salvation Army dining hall.

Volunteers give back to community

Samuel Quiroz, a chef who volunteered for the event, said the opportunity to give back was a blessing.

“I’m a chef and a chef always has somewhere to go on Thanksgiving, so I called around and the Salvation Army always needs some help, so I gave my time,” Quiroz said.

Randall Mathis, a military veteran who volunteered, said the experience was an extension of his service.

“I was in the military and I’ve always volunteered, so it was just an extension of my military service,” Mathis said. “It’s the best feeling in the world for giving back and meeting people of their needs.”

Personal connection drives service

Bobby Johnson, the Salvation Army’s lead cook, said his own experience receiving help motivated him to serve others.

“At one point, I have been out there in that line, like 30 something years ago, getting that meal too. When I saw the opportunity, I wanted to take it and you know, give back,” Johnson said.

Johnson credited the volunteers for making the dinner possible.

“They are the one that actually makes this what it is because they come in and they willing to give their time and their service for nothing,” Johnson said.

Community spirit on display

Quiroz said the event embodied the spirit of Thanksgiving through community service.

“Thanksgiving is about having a sense of community coming together and appreciating what we do have and what I had and what these people had today was some time to make sure people had some food on their bellies, which is a luxury I feel like a lot of people take advantage of these days,” Quiroz said.

Mathis expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, saying “Thank God for an opportunity to serve.”

The Salvation Army continues to seek volunteers and donations as the holiday season approaches to ensure community needs are met.

To donate or find ways to volunteer, visit their website.

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