Unemployment in Hancock County may reach 20 percent by January. Here’s how Holston churches can help Jubilee Project reach out in the spirit of Christmas.
Jubilee Project pleads for food, blankets, and money at Christmas
By Annette Spence
SNEEDVILLE, Tenn. — Randy Hildebrant is breathless as he talks about the needs of Hancock County. The worry comes pouring out as he describes the economic crisis in one of Tennessee’s poorest counties.
“This county is at a very big crossroads right now,” says Hildebrant, youth ministry coordinator at Jubilee Project. “We’ve always needed help, but now we really need help.”
As Hildebrant speaks, teenage boys carry mattresses and food out to a waiting van.
“These people need security, and I am petrified that we’re not going to have enough to give when they come,” says Hildebrant, a United Methodist Church and Community Worker.
Between now and Dec. 5, Hildebrant will lead an ecumenical effort to help the people of Hancock County through the annual Community Christmas Bazaar. Last year, 2,000 people lined up at the old high school gym in Sneedville for food, blankets, clothing, and other supplies.
Read the complete article at: The Call
HOW TO HELP:
The Community Christmas Bazaar is most in need of:
* nonperishable foods
* new or used/clean blankets and other bed linen
* new or used/clean children’s clothing
* money
Call Randy Hildebrant at (423) 733-4195 or e-mail jubileecenter@hotmail.com. Write checks to “Jubilee Project” with “Christmas” on the memo line and mail to: Jubilee Project, P.O. Box 657, Sneedville, TN 37869. Or, make your check to your local church with “#661, Jubilee Project Christmas” on the memo line.
