How did Project JOY start? 
Project Joy was started by the High School Youth Group of Priest Lake Presbyterian Church in Nashville, TN. The group was looking for a more meaningful service project that would help people that were struggling to survive daily life.

Why Harlan, KY? 
Our group knew they wanted to direct their help towards the Appalachian region. When we started researching the area in several mission resources, Harlan and its story seemed to stand out. We contacted a Presbyterian Pastor in Harlan and discussed our idea for the project. The additional information we got from him about life in the Harlan area confirmed for us that we were being called to reach out to the people of that area.

How are you funded? 
In the past, other than a $2,000 Hunger Grant we receive from our denomination, we run completely on donations from individuals and other congregations. 100% of the funds received go directly to the purchase of items that will be distributed to the residents of Harlan. All administrative costs (postage & printing) and operational costs (truck rentals and gas) are covered by funds raised specifically for that purpose. All personal travel expenses are covered by each individual. 

What does “J.O.Y.” stand for? 
It stands for “Joyous Offerings of Youth”

Who runs Project JOY? 
Project JOY is run by a steering committee of adults and youth from our congregation as well as another congregation that has been very active. Many of the people serving on the steering committee have been involved since its beginning in 1999.

Are any Project JOY staff members paid employees? 
NO, our entire group are all volunteers.

What kind of food is included in the food boxes?   
After speaking with several people from that area we put together a food box inventory that is high in protein. We also provide food that is familiar to the region.  The boxes include dried beans, rice, peanut butter, canned meats, pasta, soups, canned vegetables, oatmeal, cornmeal, flour, coffee and juice.

Where do you get the clothes you take? 
Most comes from our church as well about 20 other churches that donate to us. We also advertise is several community papers. The clothes are sorted by size and bagged and labeled for travel.

How do you reach the people in Harlan? 
We have several different avenues to reach people that need help the most. We work with several resource counselors in the area high schools. They provide a list of families with the most need. The local Presbyterian church also has input, as well as the local Head Start director.  The people are notified about the Project, then if they are interested they call the local Presbyterian Church to be put on a list.

What role does the High School Youth Group play now?    
The issue of hunger has always stayed in the forefront with the teenagers. They focus most of their energies on food purchasing, assembling and distribution of the food boxes. They also provide most of the manpower during loading and unloading our trucks.