Profile of Appalachia

This booklet describes the changing economic conditions in Appalachia and the improved social services for children. According to statistics reported in 1969 nearly 43 percent of all children under 6 in Appalachia were categorized as poor and likely to require some special services, while only 5 percent were receiving such services. The Appalachian Regional Commission has concentrated its efforts on job training, transportation, and upgrading the quality of education in Appalachia. Several Appalachian programs are described briefly, including day care centers which offer child development services such as parent counseling, health and medical services, family planning, and pre- and postnatal care, and home-based outreach programs available for families of nonworking mothers who receive public assistance. Also described is the Black Appalachian Commission, which gathers information about the black population in Appalachia, identifies community problems, and mobilizes available resources. (Author/BRT)