The Appalachia Help Weeks 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 Project is funded through donations and fund-raising projects, such as an annual golf outing, car wash and other events.

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

To be directed to the St. Patrick Parish Appalachia Help Weeks webpage, please click here.