For nearly 90 years, Barry and Lucille have lived in Jackson County, KY. They were married as teenagers and are still together 72 years later. They lived in a deteriorating mobile home with poor supports. When CAP met them, the stairs were in disrepair and it was hard for them to get in and out of the house—especially in the icy winter.
It is particularly hard for Barry to enter and exit their home because he has very bad arthritis in his knees. In recent months, he has also suffered from pneumonia, three small strokes and a dangerous snake bite that put him in the hospital for three days.
As one of CAP’s supporters, you help Appalachia’s most vulnerable people—like Barry and Lucille—survive the coldest months by helping them in four ways.
First, you help make sure everyone has enough fuel, whether it’s oil, gas, coal, or firewood.
The second necessity people need is a safe, livable home. This means repairing windows, insulation, siding and roofs. For Barry and Lucy, we added a wheelchair accessible ramp to help Barry get in and out of the house.
The third thing people need to get through the winter is nutritious food. With very little money for food, they make do on next to nothing. But in the winter, they need real nourishment to retain what health they have—especially in such a frigid home.
And the fourth need that your gift helps provide is friendship. When cold weather keeps people indoors, the isolation is so prevalent in the hills and hollers of Appalachia which becomes so crushing to the human spirit. Our Elderly Services help transport Barry and Lucille to doctor’s appointments, to pick up prescriptions, and provide essential friendship.
These treasured elders are so grateful for the concern you show for them. “CAP is such a wonderful organization,” Lucy says.