Baltimore County Christian Workcamp

Description

The BCCW, a 501(c)(3) organization, was founded by two United Methodist ministers in 1984. It is now run by lay people and is completely ecumenical. Each year over 40 homes are repaired throughout Baltimore County during the third week in July. Homes are suggested by the County Department of Social Services or Department of Health, food banks, churches, personal referrals,etc.; sites are then prioritized. The number of sites on which work is performed in any year depends on the number of volunteers, their expertise, the magnitude of each project, the weather, and BCCW's finances. There is a kick-off dinner on Sunday evening at Hunt's UMC, the host church. Each work day starts with breakfast prepared by members from a local church at the host church, the volunteers then prepare their own bagged lunches, volunteers go out to sites, with dinner that evening at local churches. All types of work (e.g., ramps, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, roofing, interior and exterior painting, caulking, inside and outside clean-up) are performed by workers of all ages. Sleeping accommodations at the host church can be available only for supervised large groups traveling from out-of-the region. Individuals must have their own medical/health insurance to participate. Anyone over 16 and willing to work may register; under 16 requires adult supervision. Fee is $25 per week, or $6 per day. Church groups are asked to donate at least $100 for building materials. [In addition, there are planning meetings held throughout the year at Hunt's Memorial UMC.)