History

In 1977, medical care in Fayette County was almost nonexistent until Carroll Dozier and the Bishop of Memphis invited the Franciscan Sisters of Rochester, MN to assist in building the Rossville Health Clinic. Sister Elaine Wicks was sent by the Franciscan Sisters of Rochester to serve but she stayed by choice. She served the people of Fayette County in the Rossville Health Clinic, in the community schools, and in their homes.

In 1980 Fayette County Tennessee was the third poorest county in the United States. Today the county experiences record growth, however the poor remain very poor with many still in need of their “daily bread”. Through the projects established by Sister Elaine Wicks, Project Outreach has made a significant impact in the lives of the people who call this rural community their home.

Sister Elaine spent much of her time ministering to the people of this community, until cancer took her in 1998. The volunteers of Project Outreach continue her vision and dream to improve the nutrition, living conditions, access to clothing and school supplies for this underserved community. Ministering to the needs and the condition of the human spirit for those who live in this rural community is at the heart of the mission of Project Outreach.

It is because of our donors, sponsors, and volunteers that we are able to continue to do this very important ministry set in motion by Sister Elaine Wicks.

Everything donated to Project Outreach goes directly to the families we serve in Fayette County. Our ministry staff are volunteers and do not take salaries for their efforts; so you know that when you donate to this ministry, 100% of your donation will go directly to those who need your help the most.

Project Outreach is a non-denominational organization formed with a Franciscan Spirit, dedicated to serving and providing aid for the poor, the sick, the aged, and the marginalized.