Good morning, Augusta.

CSRA food banks report a rise in visitors as thousands lose SNAP benefits due to new federal rules.

Local agencies like Golden Harvest are adjusting supplies—donations are down even as demand grows.

Due to downtown construction affecting parking, Arts in the Heart will move to the Augusta Fairgrounds this weekend.

Free shuttle services from downtown & Pedal Pub routes will help festival-goers reach the new site.

Apparo Academy, which opened on Skinner Mill Road in 2019 to serve children with special needs and others, added kindergarten in August and plans to break ground on an 11,000 sqft elementary school and therapy center on purchased five acres.

The $15 million campaign will double its capacity.

Augusta University's School of Public Health will launch its first undergraduate Bachelor of Science in Public Health program in fall 2027 after receiving approval from the University System of Georgia Board of Regents on Sept.

16 (a major milestone), as the program offers community health training with a required internship.

The Richmond County School System fired five school resource officers after a state review raised concerns about their ability to serve as peace officers, and it disciplined a sixth officer.

The district said the move followed school policy & state guidelines to keep trust in school safety.

Augusta University is updating the Summerville Campus with extensive improvements including wider sidewalks, new bus stops, and outdoor seating — work that began during summer and will continue through early to mid-2028.

The projects aim to create safer, more accessible, and engaging campus spaces while preserving its historic charm.

Richmond County Sheriff’s Office will host an open house for the Explorer Post 121 program on Thursday from 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the South Substation on Mike Padgett Highway, offering hands-on experiences for teens & young adults interested in law enforcement.

Wellstar Golisano Children’s Hospital in Augusta received a $400K Hyundai Hope on Wheels grant at a Handprint Ceremony on Thursday at 10 a.m. & the funding supports development of targeted, safer treatments for childhood cancers.

SRP Park, teaming with Georgia Southern University & The Citadel, will host a fall exhibition game on Saturday, Oct.

3 with gates opening at 12:30 p.m. and first pitch at 1:00 p.m., and $12 general admission tickets are available while season ticket holders receive a free ticket.

Augusta University volleyball team ended its worst start since 2010 with a 2-8 record through 10 matches after hosting Middle Georgia State on Sept.

17 at Christenberry Fieldhouse; the Jaguars are looking to rebound in upcoming conference play.