Sharing With Appalachian People (SWAP)

Using the efforts of volunteers, SWAP addresses sub-standard housing in eastern Kentucky and West Virginia. Participants will work with and for local clients "In the name of Christ", sharing the message of God's love and building relationships that serve to enrich all involved.

While there are many people who live comfortably in Central Appalachia, there are an unusually high number of families who live in difficult circumstances. In fact, approximately 30% of the people in SWAP-served areas live below the US poverty line, and/or struggle with a disability. Surprisingly, even among those who struggle, home ownership rates are about 12% over the national average, and it's this combination of factors that creates a significant need for home repair. To address this need, SWAP utilizes the efforts up to 1400 Christian volunteers from 5 home repair locations in Eastern Kentucky and West Virginia. While SWAP is a Mennonite Central Committee (Great Lakes Region) ministry, we welcome all volunteer groups with an authentic Christian witness.