Raleigh community gym offers space for people to avoid violence, work out for free

"It breaks our heart. It really breaks our heart. That is what we are trying to convey, we are trying to give young people something else to do," said Christopher Jones.

Behind the neighborhood grocery store is a gym called the Ship Yard. It is open to anyone - pre-teens, women and gang members.

"We can speak into their lives and we can talk about different things. How to go about life and live life differently," said Jacqueline Jones.

The couple runs the gym behind the Galley Grocery Store. It opened in 2017.

There are incentives for those who come work out - like a T-shirt. But the Joneses said everyone has to earn their shirt.

"We just don't give you a shirt, you have to come in and spend time. You have to allow us to do life with you. We have to see you get stronger and quicker," Christopher Jones said.

When they earn it, The Joneses say they can see the change.

"We are trying to work with those that are still here in the best we can to fill gaps, if they need employment, whatever gaps for them... we are pastors, we want them to get closer to Christ also," Jacqueline Jones said.

The couple said over the last few years they have lost 15 men to violence.