The Red Bird Conference is in southeastern Kentucky. This area has been struggling with systemic poverty for more than a century. This was a “volunteers’ work camp” trip. There were 141 volunteers from mostly New Jersey, some New Yorkers and a few Philadelphians. We helped repair 10 homes for the people. If my memory is correct, we were told that there is 40% poverty and 10% unemployment in this area. On a tour of the school, it was pointed out that red lockers the students use were paid for through the “BoxTop” labels collection. It was good to see how those little labels we collect does so much good; let’s keep it up. This was a tremendous experience which I will gladly do again if I have the stamina and energy. I will be glad to answer any questions. You can play the video below to view some pictures from the July 2017 mission trip.
Anita Chichester – Chair of Outreach, DeBows UMC
