Join Hands Ministry

ABOUT:

Considered among one of most rural communities (88.50% of the Perry County population is classified rural) with limited resources and public services in the state, Perry County faces several challenges that other rural communities suffer: limited resources due to lower per capita income resulting in limited tax revenue, lack of public services such as transportation, greater distance for services, fewer affordable housing options, affordable health care systems and limited income and education opportunities. According to the U.S. Census count for 2020 data report, approximately 45,842 individuals reside in Perry County. Among them, about 8.8 percent are reported as living under the poverty line. This is a slight drop from the Census from 2010. In addition to the limited resources and services, low-income residents in Perry County have been affected greatly since the nation-wide economic downturn and global pandemic. An inconvenience to an affluent family -- minor car trouble, a brief illness, disrupted childcare -- is a crisis to the rural poor, for it can threaten their ability to stay employed. They spend everything and have nothing to save.
Between November and December 2022, 137 individuals who received services from Join Hands Ministry were asked to complete a survey. 70% of those individuals surveyed reported that finances were their biggest struggle, and 25% indicated that transportation was their biggest struggle. Last year, 2023, provided similar, if not, higher statistical data to prove the need for financial assistance. And 2024 appears to be an even more financially strenuous year for low- to moderate-income households as ERAP (emergency rental assistance program) and other COVID related funding has expired.

OUR MISSION:

Our mission is to serve as the heart of our community, providing comprehensive support and resources to neighbors facing hardships. Through collaborative partnerships and innovative programs, we coordinate education, resources, and opportunities needed to overcome challenges. By fostering a culture of empathy, equity, and inclusion, we aim to build a stronger, more resilient community where everyone can thrive.