From Howard Beach to Appalachia with love

Joseph Campisi needs your help.
As Deacon of Our Lady of Grace (OLG) in Howard Beach for nearly 25 years, he knows about helping others.
And he wants you to experience that same joy - by donating to the poor in Kentucky.
You see, each year he travels to Appalachia with a crew of volunteers to help the destitute there. This year, he and three other men will be leaving on September 27.
But before he goes - a trip the volunteers pay for themselves, despite the rising costs of fuel - Campisi needs to raise money.
With what is raised, the volunteers fix homes and aid the poor.
Campisi recalls one woman wearing tatters, with plastic bags for windows, and another with a freezer full of possum meat.
“It’s a very poor area - they live in shacks,” he said. “Last year we bought four hot water heaters, fixed bathrooms. One hundred percent goes to them. Even if I have some [money] left over, I leave it to them for emergencies.”
But there may not be any money left over this year, he said.
So far, only $3,000 has been raised. Last year, the total was $5,000.
“Any help we can get [is appreciated],” said Campisi, who said he will go door-to-door in the coming weeks and will ask the businesses along Cross Bay Boulevard to donate.
The Howard Beach Assembly of God will also help to collect funds.
And on Saturday, September 20 and Sunday, September 21, Campisi will be outside OLG after Mass, hoping parishioners will open their hearts and their wallets.
“Last year the people of OLG were so generous,” said Campisi’s wife Gloria. “We’re hoping they will do that again.”
In addition to ministering to the physical needs of the poor, Campisi also sees to their spiritual well-being.
“We pray morning, afternoon and evening,” he said. “Each night we have a retreat. It’s really a great thing.”
“It’s a great honor and privilege to work with the poor,” he continued.
“My whole life is based on giving back. I have been very fortunate and happy with what I am and what I have. The joy the volunteers get is priceless.”
If you would like to help, send a check to Christian Appalachian Project, care of Deacon Joseph Campisi, 155-11 Bridgeton Street, Howard Beach, NY 11414.
Campisi will even pick up donations. He can be reached by calling 718-848-4447.