More than 600 people brought more than 90,000 cans of food for the homeless Sunday at the annual Skydog 68 benefit.
Canned food was the price of admission for concert event that celebrates the life and music of the late Duane “Skydog” Allman. He would have turned 68 on Nov. 20.
The cans were donated to the Rescue Mission of Middle Georgia. The nonprofit feeds and helps the homeless.
Glenn Harrell, event coordinator, estimated from 600 to 700 people gathered at the Cox Capital Theatre in downtown Macon. The event was moved indoors a few days out ahead of the bad weather.
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“The Allman Brothers were very significant to Macon and Middle Georgia and then, of course, the world,” said Harrell, a drummer who joined a host of musicians on stage. “They were very popular and still are today.
“The Allman Brothers (Band) are retiring this year ... There’s a heritage. There’s a musical root here,” Harrell said. “We stay connected with bringing younger guys on – making sure they know the music.”
Joshua McMatt, who lives at the rescue mission in Macon, was manning the agency’s large truck parked outside the theatre.
The truck was about half full Sunday afternoon. He estimated more than 90,000 cans had been donated.
McMatt said the rescue mission has changed the direction of his life.
“It’s one of the best things that’s ever happened in my life,” McMatt said. “It helps so many people that comes in the door that ain’t got nothing,
“It starts them over. You know, it gives them an another way of life with God,” he said.
Lisa Norris of Macon brought twice the 10-can, per-person donation requested as admission by event organizers.
“It was great,” Norris said of the event. “I just like the music. I love southern rock.”
To contact writer Becky Purser, call 256-9559.
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