Augusta Group Helps Families In Need

Augusta, GA—Interfaith Hospitality Network of Augusta helps families that are homeless, to get back on their feet. And, lately, their numbers have been going up, seeing more and more families that need their help.

Lanette Williams is the typical mom of many in America lately. She held a steady job until business got bad, her hours were cut…and in a matter of months she, and her 3 kids were left homeless.

Lanette Williams, Interfaith client: “It is so frustrating. Because it makes you feel like you have no control about how you’re going to be able to take care of your family, in these times.“

Amanda Gray, Director, Interfaith Hospitality Network of Augusta: “She couldn’t pay the landlord, couldn’t pay the electric bill. And you know, this is a woman who’s got a lot of energy, a woman who has a vision for her and her children. And, it’s all out of her control, because of economics.“

Amanda Gray is the Director of Interfaith Hospitality Network of Augusta. It’s a non-profit organization that provides shelter for homeless families, through churches, and helps them find a job. Williams found her way here, just one week ago.

Lanette Williams: “My lowest point was knowing that there was a choice of actually laying down on the ground, or living in my van, and having to worry about being in unsafe conditions with my children.“

Williams and her family aren’t alone. Lately, workers at Interfaith have seen a huge number of those needing help, especially with the sky-rocketing gas prices.

Amanda Gray: “It’s livelihood for the people that are working…the working poor, the poor, and impoverished people, where two family members are working. It’s more difficult for them because it can mean paying their rent, or paying their electric bill.“

Interfaith has been what Williams would call, ‘her saving grace…‘ a chance for her to adjust to the changing economy, and a place that she can call home….at least for now.

Lanette Williams: “Oh you know, I see good things…you know, I really do. I just have to keep looking forward to, you know, I don’t want to look back and keeping seeing the bad things. You can’t look at them like that. You have to keep believing that there’s something good out there, and the more you believe, it will happen.“

Monday, Interfaith is holding its annual golf marathon fundraiser. Last year, the marathon raised more than $100,000. This year’s goal is to raise $125,000.

Several thousand members, from 23 congregations in Augusta, volunteer with Interfaith.