MSP News Editor Ray Boles
We don’t usually like to keep track of good deeds, but when I read Executive Director Ella Smith’s January Newsletter which reviewed activities for 2009, I was staggered by the number of people helped by Morgan-Scott Project. I write about them here so that our supporters will know how much their gifts are accomplishing and how much they are appreciated. Here are some of the numbers:
Emergency aid in the form of help with utility bills, rent, medical co-pay, and medication were provided for 1,236 individuals in 409 families. A total of 614 food boxes were provided to feed 1,663 individuals. The MSP-sponsored Scott County Homeless Shelter provided food and shelter to 30 men, 35 women and 35 children for a total of 1,965 bed stays. Fifteen workgroups totaling 193 volunteers built 12 wheelchair ramps while upgrading 15 homes. Backpacks were provided for 27 children. A total of 59 adults were assisted in job training at the Tennessee Technology Center. Three high school seniors received $500 scholarships to attend Roane State Community College. The Good Earth Program provided seeds, plants, and fertilizer to 384 families for their home gardens. Thanks to the combined efforts of MSP, The Unicorn Fund, and the Salvation Army, 2,832 children in 858 families received Christmas gifts.
It is impossible to know the exact number, but we estimate that at least 7,500 people in Morgan and Scott counties were assisted in 2009. This is approximately 18% of the combined population of these two counties. That there are these many people in need of help should not be surprising given the December 2009 statistics which show 12.3 % unemployment in Morgan County and 18.8% in Scott County. This compares to 10.0% in the U.S. and 10.9% in Tennessee. By contrast, the more urban Knox and Hamilton counties had unemployment rates of 8.1 and 8.9%, respectively. Times are tough all over, but they are especially tough in rural America.
This was accomplished on MSP expenditures of $175,000, but of course this does not count the many gifts in kind of toys, clothing, and labor. Ultimately it was accomplished thanks to the many churches and individuals who contributed their time, money, and energy to help the people of Morgan and Scott Counties. It was much needed and very much appreciated.
Article by Ray Boles
I just wrote a letter asking for Help with Utility Bills, I don’t know if this is the right place to ask this, but I am in desperite need with mine.I do good to keep my phone and internet to be able to even write this. If I have the wrong place please if you could e-mail me back with information on this I would really appreciate it. THANKS Pamela Barry
I searched for something completely different, but found your website! And have to say thanks. Nice read. Will come back.
For most families, daycare expenses form a huge chunk of their monthly budget, and it has become extremely difficult for them to see a way through it.