SWAP season is just around the corner

As the weather gets warmer, it's getting to be that time of year again - SWAP season! Sharing With Appalachian People (SWAP) is a home repair ministry that serves low-income families in several counties of southeastern Kentucky and West Virginia.

Each summer, school, college, youth and inter-generational church groups come to one of the five SWAP locations and spend a week in service. Other volunteers will spend three months serving as summer staff.

With over 1,400 volunteers signed up to participate in 57 groups this season, SWAP staff have the tough task of making sure all the groups and projects run smoothly. Even if you're not one of the groups participating this summer, you can still play an important role in the SWAP ministry.
*The staff trucks need to be updated, as they are an average of 12 years or older, in need of repairs and have high mileage.
*SWAP is always in need of building material donations. (Gift cards from building supply stores in Appalachia are preferred.)
*The Elkhorn, West Virginia, site is in need of a meals/household staff person for this summer season. Contact Charlene and Keith Barr at (304) 862-3437 or swapelkhorn@mcc.org.
*SWAP may also need additional summer staff. If you have carpentry skills or experience and are available for at least several weeks, call (606) 633-5065 or email SWAPadmin@mcc.org.
*All types of tools are needed for construction, especially hand tools that need replaced yearly and batteries for power tools.
*Visit mcc.org/swap/ministryneeds for a detailed list of needs.

You can also be in prayer for:
*The Location Coordinators as they choose the homeowners to help this summer.
*Safety for the groups coming and safety on the job site.
*Spiritual growth for the groups and the staff.
*Good relationships between the home owners and the groups.
*Times of rest and reflection for the SWAP staff.

Although the SWAP sites are full with groups this summer, we are already taking applications for the 2009 SWAP year. Groups may apply online at mcc.org/swap.