The Appalachia Help Weeks are a part of the Justice & Service component to Youth Ministry.  The whole process fosters the faith development of all who participate and provides an opportunity for our community to be the Body of Christ for others. It is one of the major projects sponsored by Youth Ministry. During the summer, youth, college students, and adults travel to Preston County, West Virginia to help renovate dilapidated homes owned by our brothers and sisters living with the unfortunate situation of rural poverty.

Originating in 1986 as a flood relief effort, Saint Patrick Youth Ministry has collaborated with the Catholic Church of Preston County in this outreach effort. Applications are received throughout the year for home repair. The Social Concerns Committee of the Catholic Church of Preston County then follows up with visits to each family. Lastly in June-July, we send groups into Preston County to work for a week on some of the applicants' homes.

The Appalachia Help Weeks project is funded through donations and fund-raising projects. Confirmed students in high school and college are welcome to join in this outreach project. Adults and adult chaperones are also needed and welcome. 

Certain Place Ministries, headed by Fred Mercadante, will coordinate this effort along with St. Patrick Parish and St. Vincent Martyr Parish in Madison, NJ. 

Interested in taking part in this meaningful outreach service? 
Contact: Fred Mercadante: 973 975-5911