Steps Toward Recovery is a Journey Two Middle Georgia Men Walk Together

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — For some people, The Salvation Army is like the ‘lost and found.’ The organization is known around the world for helping those in need and the groups in middle Georgia are no different.

When Wayne Ellerbee’s life decisions caused him to fall on hard times, he turned to the group known for “doing the most good.”

“I believe I came here at the right time, God works wonders,” said Ellerbee.

Ellerbee is a husband and a father of 5 girls, but some bad decisions early in life temporarily took him away from his family.

“I had a warrant and they arrested me at the hospital the day the newborn was born, I got to hold her for 15 minutes and they came in and arrested me,” according to Ellerbee.

At age 15, he was drinking and getting into fights. Those activities later led to arrests for disorderly conduct and aggravated battery.

Ellerbee added, “My mother and father’s relationship wasn’t stable so I went out on my own, head first.”

Anthony Ward’s story is different, but he shares a common goal with Ellerbee.

“I was married, had two kids and instead of being the man and fighting for it, I just gave up and turned to the drugs.”

After serving in the Army Reserves, Ward struggled with facing life’s issues and turned to crack cocaine at the age of 27.

Ward said, “At first it was just a little bit at a time, it progressed to more and more, then it started being to every paycheck, the whole paycheck…”

Now the two of them are doing the most good with the help of The Salvation Army. They’re participating in the residential drug treatment program. They are required to attend classes and work 5 days a week in exchange for housing, food, clothing, and pay.

Major David Cope at The Salvation Army said, “We will push them along, we will hold them accountable…because this is not a free ride.”

The participants in the program learn the value of a dollar. According to them, the added bonus? The friendships you make and a chance to learn the life lessons.

“Get rid of your pride and don’t be afraid to ask for help,” said Ward.

For more information on The Salvation Army and the programs and assistance available call (478) 746-8572.