MACON, Ga. — Salvation Army of Greater Macon held a ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday, July 25 to celebrate the installation of a new outdoor basketball court and playground.
They told 13WMAZ the playground was installed over a month and a half ago. Several foundations raised the money for the court and playground.
Sargent Austin Sturdivant said this time last year they served 1,200 people. Since then, they've served more than 1,350 people, a 7% increase.
He said because of the influx of people, their faith-based organization found new ways to make the space more family friendly, with the addition of the recreational facilities.
"We have lots of families here, lots of children and so we thought playground first of all for the kids and then when we thought of a recreational area that could suit both adults and children, basketball was a no-brainer for us," Sturdivant said.
The Salvation Army became Hall's home a month ago. He said prior to the addition, he and other residents found other outlets for fun.
"We was just sitting inside watching TV," Hall said. "I know sometimes I would find an area to walk around and just to exercise and get some things off my mind."
Now, the equipment gives them a shot at staying more active and saves him a trip to other local gyms.
"It'll give me and the rest of the men and the children and women a chance to have extra-curricular activities," Hall said.
Hall isn't the only one enjoying the upgrades. Keyonna Guobaia graduated from the program earlier this month. She said she would get everyone together for game nights.
"Personally me, I was actually bringing the families together and having uno games and they start telling them more needs because you know they be busy and its like only the residents know what the other residents want," Guobaia said.
Salvation Army said they are moving forward with plans to add a computer lab. It will help residents with job searches and homework.