Facing Poverty In Appalachia

Central Appalachia has been described as the “poverty pocket of America,”  making the work challenging for those who serve in the region.

• 37 of the 100 poorest counties in the USA

• Areas where 45% of the population live in extreme poverty

• Many children go without adequate food, medical care, bedding, and clothing

In addition to limited resources our churches and ministry centers deal with other related issues—abuse, drugs, illiteracy, heath needs, substandard housing, food, clothing, transportation, worldview, and a whole list of other issues.  Whether it is a Bible study group or a children’s event the above challenges confront those who minister in Central Appalachia.

Year-round ministry centers across eastern Kentucky, eastern Tennessee, southwestern Virginia, and West Virginia face real challenges as they work to provide food, basic household items such as toiletries, detergents, cleaning supplies, and hygiene items.  Other needs include school supplies, and new mom packs.

You and every member of your church can get involved in Acts 1:8 missions without leaving home by providing: 

• Food boxes or funds to purchase food

• Back to school supplies

• Hygiene packs

• Coats and shoes

• Socks and new underwear

• Children's Clothing

• Bedding/Blankets/towels

• Diapers

• New Mom Packs

 How?  Working with your pastor, Women’s Ministry Director, Men’s Ministry Director, or Youth Director  decide on which need you feel God is leading your church to meet.  Then contact Appalachian Regional Ministry and we will give you the contact information of a ministry center that needs assistance.

• Then place a list of the needed supplies in your church bulletin.

• Set a date for the collection of the materials.  Allow 3 or 4 weeks for people to purchase the supplies.

• lAsk each family, Sunday School Class, or missions organization to put together a package or food box.

• Encourage individuals from the church to take a weekend and personally deliver the materials/supplies.

 For a shipping address to a ministry center in Appalachia contact Bill Barker at 606-316-4298 or at  bbarker@arministry.org.

Or ship to:

A.R.M.

Hurricane, WV 25526

28 White Rock Road