What is going on in Coahoma? (Clarksdale, Jonestown: homes, employment, school)

[CAL]

I recently visited Coahoma Town while traveling, I was surprised about the conditions of the homes, is this typical in that area and are the kids moving ahead and getting a good education?

[cgp]

I work in Jonestown and the kids from Coahoma get bused to our school. And the condition of Coahoma is comparable to Jonestown, Friars Point, and all the other little tiny towns around there. As far as their education goes... well... I do my best and I see other teachers working VERY hard to give these children some sort of knowledge, but I definitely believe there is a lack of connection for some children. There are no jobs around, see, and so why get smart if you are never going to us it?!?!

This part of Mississippi is a truly interesting place, but I will say that just because it looks so broken down, dirty, and poor... it is one of the most beautiful and loving places I have ever been.

[CAL]

Thank you for responding, I trully thought the area was beautiful. I think I was set back with the poverty. I was able to find 2 catholic sisters in Jonestown that are helping with the youth, you might know of them. I have peace that Coahoma is in God's hands and I will be praying for Coahoma as the Lord leads. I would love to go back. I am hoping God will raise up leaders in your community, there must be some way to start a business to bring employment and to encourage the youth, the area is so beautiful. In California the kids aren't doing all that great but their is opportunity which keeps them going. We need to keep progressing so that others may benefit, that is my prayer for Coahoma and Jonestown.

[lwchell]

I recently relocated back to the mid-south. Currently I am about an hour from Coahoma County, I was born in Friars Point, MS., one of the small improvished towns that make up the county. At first glace the devasting nature of poverty hits you in the face like a baseball ball bat; however once you recover you are surrounded by beautiful people who are anxious to tell you what happened to you. They are also anxious to feed you through your recovery.

I am attempting to do my best and my small part to aid in the educational state of children in this area. I would love to speak more with anyone who is interested in lending this county a helping hand. I can be contacted at [EMAIL="lwchell@hotmail.com"]lwchell@hotmail.com[/EMAIL]

[JMT]

Originally Posted by lwchell

I recently relocated back to the mid-south. Currently I am about an hour from Coahoma County, I was born in Friars Point, MS., one of the small improvished towns that make up the county. At first glace the devasting nature of poverty hits you in the face like a baseball ball bat; however once you recover you are surrounded by beautiful people who are anxious to tell you what happened to you. They are also anxious to feed you through your recovery.

I am attempting to do my best and my small part to aid in the educational state of children in this area. I would love to speak more with anyone who is interested in lending this county a helping hand. I can be contacted at lwchell@hotmail.com

I went to Ole Miss and have been to Clarksdale (county seat of Coahoma County) several times, and it gets more and more depressing each time. Clearly, Clarksdale used to be a beautiful, prosperous city. I believe at one time it was one of the 5 largest cities in Mississippi, and Coahoma County was one of the wealthiest counties in the entire country. For those who are still there, I hope you'll be able to do something to turn the place around. It breaks my heart to see what it's become.

Here are some pics I found of Clarksdale: