www.mustardseeds.org

Located in the Appalachian Mountains of WV, Mustard Seeds and Mountains is an organization run by Randy & Jacque Wallace.  I was introduced to Randy & Jacque and Mustard Seeds through my Church in Concord, Forest Hill United Methodist.  Forest Hill takes a team to WV regularly to do mission work in McDowell County, currently the 7th poorest county in the U.S.  Many of the people are living in structures and under conditions that are unbelievable, conditions that we are only used to hearing about in poverty stricken 3rd-world countries.  As an example, many people live without indoor plumbing, without heat & air-conditioning, and even some without electricity. 

The local economy has become non-existent as all of the coal mines, which have caused severe health problems in the community, are now automated and all the profits are shipped out to the corporate giants.  The unemployment rate is around 30%, about 20 times that of the rate here in Raleigh.  Without employment and without business, the local government lacks money to build and maintain the schools.  Smaller communities have large numbers of houses that have been gutted by fire because fire trucks have no access.  Is it really possible for this situation to be that dire?  I used to not think so!!

So, you must think that all of the people walk around in gloom and depression---NOT SO!!!  My 2 WV experiences have been incredibly enlightening.  The religious values, the camaraderie, the incredible hope and sense of community will astound you.  Some of the people that I met have really taught me how to appreciate what I have and who I am.  To hear someone talking to God and thanking Him for allowing them to awake that morning is such an eye opening experience.

Mustard Seeds & Mountains helps to provide hope for these people.  They fix up their homes.  They help educate the children.  They help people get back on their feet.  They are working to build businesses, to create an economy.  This is such a tremendous organization that serves people in deep, deep poverty; people who have been ignored for years by the state and federal government, people right here in our own back yard.

As a non-profit organization, Mustard Seeds & Mountains needs financial support.  They also need our time and our energy.  Every summer, they invite church/youth groups from around the mid-eastern states to spend a week at a time working in this community.  If you want your children & teenagers to see what life is like on the other side and to experience the joys of helping someone---Call Randy.  It is an experience you will not soon forget.