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In Savannah, Georgia, community leaders from West Savannah are expressing serious concerns over the Salvation Army’s intention to establish a Center of Hope in their neighborhood. Their apprehensions center on the potential adverse effects this development might have on the area, which they argue could disrupt long-term goals for economic growth and cultural preservation.
The proposed site for the Center of Hope is located along Augusta Avenue, a location steeped in historical debate. The area is closely tied to the Weeping Time, the largest documented slave auction in Georgia’s history. Although studies conducted by the City of Savannah have indicated that the land in question was not directly part of the auction site, residents emphasize that the vicinity carries profound historical and cultural importance.
Community leaders assert that while they do not oppose efforts to tackle homelessness or provide essential support services, they question the suitability of a large-scale facility in this particular location. They argue it might not align with the community’s broader vision for development and upliftment.
Alderwoman Bernetta Lanier, representing District 1, voiced her concerns by stating, “We have a plan to lift our community up. There are many needs we have, but what they offer does not align with the priorities of a historically marginalized community.”
“We have a plan to lift our community up,” said Alderwoman Bernetta Lanier of District 1. “There are a lot of things that we need, but what they are offering is not one to a historically marginalized community.”
The Salvation Army’s proposed Center of Hope would include housing for roughly 250 people, along with educational and support programs. Advisory board members have said the organization hopes to break ground later this year.
Lanier said the size and function of the facility raise concerns about how it could affect the neighborhood’s future.
“If we had a list of the worst developments that could come to that property, it would be on that list because it is not near the highest and best use of that property,” she said.
Pastor Larry Gordon, president of the Weeping Time Coalition, said the group has opposed development on the site from the beginning and believes the land could serve a different purpose.
“We have said no. We are not puzzled. We are not confused that it’s a no,” Gordon said. “This could be used for a much greater purpose.”
Both Gordon and Lanier said they worry the project could disrupt neighborhood plans, affect future generations and stall momentum in a community already working to overcome historic disinvestment.
“We get dumped on, and we are sick and tired of being dumped on,” Lanier said. “We raised really good people, and we are really working hard to become a more involved and sustainable community. When people do things like this to us, it stops our momentum.”
Gordon said community leaders have offered alternative locations for the Center of Hope and are open to working with the Salvation Army just not at this site.
“We have been open. We have shown them several locations,” Gordon said. “We will help them find places and support them in other places, not just at our property in question.”
Community leaders said they envision development that includes housing, retail, cultural spaces and opportunities to build generational wealth.
“We could create an economic engine right here,” Lanier said. “We have a plan that will bring housing, retail, a museum and the things we need to uplift our community.”
Leaders said conversations are ongoing and stress that community voices must remain central as plans for the Center of Hope move forward.
“…we’re asking folks like the Salvation Army and other people who do not understand our struggle to get their knee off of our necks,” Lanier said.