The people here in Appalachia are truly remarkable. A strong passion for life, fueled by deep-rooted family traditions, provides the strength they need to survive in one of America’s harshest regions. Take Mimi, for instance; despite living in some unimaginable conditions, she keeps her head up and she’s a very proud woman.

Mimi is 85 years old and since her husband and mother passed away, she has been the sole caretaker of her blind daughter, who is 66. Also, Mimi’s health has been deteriorating. She suffered a heart attack that required open-heart surgery. And a recent fall broke her hip, so now she’s walking with crutches.

Mimi just doesn’t have the money—or the energy—to keep her home in a livable condition. She lives on a small fixed income, and there’s nothing in the budget for home repairs or for the handicap provisions she now needs because of her hip.

But the situation is growing more and more desperate for her. Her roof and floors are literally falling apart. Poor insulation and water runoff from the mountain behind her house have led to an infestation of mold, which is extremely dangerous. Also, the bath tub floor is sinking.

During the winter months, the old house is freezing. The outdated heating system just isn’t enough, and Mimi must use the kitchen stove to help keep herself and her daughter warm.

Thousands of homes in Appalachia are in desperate need of repair before the freezing winter sets in.

CAP has plans to make critical repairs to Mimi’s home, but we need help from generous friends like you. So many people like Mimi and her daughter are deeply concerned as winter approaches. With your help, they won’t have to face the cold alone.

Thank you for your support.