Sanctuary to Host Coffee & Conversation on Appalachia, Poverty, Addiction, and Economics

Sanctuary Community of Christ will host a “Coffee & Conversation” event focused on Appalachia, poverty, addiction, and regional economics, bringing together community voices to discuss challenges and lived experiences across the Appalachian region.

The discussion will include presenters Jazzy Lowe, Scott Leeth, Abby Spears, Chip Piorit, Kristen Livingston, along with additional contributors.

The event is intended to explore the interconnected issues that continue to shape life in Appalachia, a region that spans parts of Kentucky and neighboring states and has long faced economic transition as traditional industries have declined. Many communities have experienced persistent poverty, limited access to healthcare, and barriers to consistent employment opportunities, particularly in rural areas where resources can be limited.

Substance use and addiction, including the ongoing impact of opioid-related challenges, will also be part of the conversation. In many Appalachian communities, addiction has been tied to broader issues such as economic instability, job loss, and gaps in treatment access, creating long-term effects on families and local support systems.

Organizers also plan to address economic conditions in the region, including shifts away from coal and manufacturing jobs, the rise of service-based employment, and the difficulty some communities face in attracting new industries. Transportation limitations and infrastructure needs in rural counties can also affect access to education, employment, and healthcare services.

The Coffee & Conversation format is designed to encourage dialogue among participants and attendees in an informal setting, allowing space for personal experience, discussion, and reflection on possible paths forward for communities in Appalachia.