The Morgan Scott Project was established in 1972. It exists to identify specific needs and initiate programs to help the poor, elderly, and disabled. This mission works primarily with families trapped in the rural poverty of Appalachia.

It is inconceivable that in this land of plenty, there is an area known as "America's Third World." The Morgan Scott Project works in such an area to provide a ministry to the people of the Morgan and Scott Counties of eastern Tennessee. Twenty-six percent of the people in this region live below the poverty level. Unemployment is well above the national average, with 18 percent of the residents using food stamps. Morgan County has no hospital.

Morgan Scott is also involved in providing food, clothing, and other necessities, especially in emergencies. The project director has asked that NA Churches hold "Soap Sundays" to collect soap, shampoo, and other hygiene products. Items such as these supplement what people cannot purchase with food stamps.

The Thrift and Bread Program collects clothing for distribution or resale and collects bread once a week for the poor. The Good Earth Program supplies potatoes, fertilizer, and seed to area families for gardening. Temporary aid is provided, through the Emergency Aid Program, to families who lose their home to a fire or natural disaster. Emergency medical care is also promptly provided as needed. The Christmas Program reaches over 800 children yearly. The Housing Rehabilitation Program assists families with home repairs they cannot afford to make. Many houses in this region do not have an indoor bath, running water, or even electricity. The Housing Rehabilitation Program equips some homes with these basic services or repairs windows, porches, roofs, or doors. Volunteers are always welcome at the Morgan Scott Project.

The focus of the Morgan Scott Project is not simply to give handouts, but to help area residents establish a better life for themselves. Area residents can see the love and compassion of Christ in action through this mission.

I want to make a contribution to the work of this mission!