Lee County, Virginia Residents Fall on Hard Times After Coal Facility Shuts Down
Blackjewel, LCC closed mining operations across the country when they filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy on July 1, 2019. About 450 Virginia employees were sent home. Many of those Virginians live in Lee County, Virginia.
The poverty rate in Lee County dramatically increased when hundreds of families were affected by the bankruptcy. According to the US Census Bureau, prior to this event, 26.2 % of Lee County residents were living in poverty. The national average is 12.3%
After learning of the situation, Anchor Ridge has committed to serve this community in hopes of making a positive impact on those affected by this economic downturn.
On Saturday, July 27th, Anchor Ridge will deliver and distribute over 30 tons of food and rations as well as hygiene kits and household items at Lee High School located at 200 General Lane, Jonesville, Va. Over 60 volunteers with the charity will help provide a hot meal during the distribution. A free concert, face painting and inflatables will also be included at the event, which is free and open to the public.
Anchor Ridge is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) charity based in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina bringing help and hope to Appalachian families throughout Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia by providing food, hygiene, items, shelter and more provided by our gracious donors and strategic partners.
