Appalachian Ministry Resource Teamy

Matthew 25 "I was hungry; I was thirsty; I was a stranger; I was naked; I was in prison; I was ill. Whatsoever you do to the least of my brothers and sisters you do to me." The Appalachian Ministry Resource Team (AMRT) has continued its work through the year 2000 to connect the people of the Diocese of East Tennessee with ministries already in place serving those in our Appalachian area in need of the basics of life: shelter, food and clothing. An updated directory was published for Convention 2001 with current information about work camps, food ministries, educational opportunities and school needs. An exhibit was created to remind convention delegates of those who are in need and the work that is being done. The Diocese of East Tennessee supported the AMRT collection of school supplies for Appalachian students. More than 430 backpacks filled with school supplies were distributed to students in Campbell County. An additional $4,197.88 was spent for more backpacks and supplies and some of this money was divided between the 14 schools in the county in the form of vouchers to be used for shoes, clothes, and additional school supplies. A dilapidated day care center in White Oak is on its way to becoming a dormitory to house summer work camps. The AMRT supported the reconstruction work throughout this year. The dormitory is in the last stages of preparation to house volunteers arriving in the summer 2001 to renovate homes in the area. A special holiday offering was asked of our diocese for canned fruits, soups and donations for Food/Life Services in Campbell County. Wood was cut and delivered to the places where the need was greatest. The Appalachian Ministry Resource Team continues to give the members of the Diocese of East Tennessee an opportunity to care for our Appalachian neighbors.

Respectfully submitted by Marita Pratt