Members and leaders of Park Avenue United Methodist Church took several LAMP residents and their children to St. Simon Island for a day of fun.  The church provided lunch and a dinner at a local restaurant.  LAMP was started in 1984 by a small group of individuals, churches, and the synagogue in Lowndes County, Georgia.  In the beginning of being established, it was formed as a clearinghouse that would monitor and steward the distribution of local assistance dollars.  Over the years, LAMP has become more than just a clearinghouse; it is now Lowndes County and the surrounding area’s local mission for the homeless.  LAMP is partially-funded through government grants, but relies heavily on private donations and must show community support to receive matching grant dollars.  LAMP provides a shelter for homeless families, single parents, single women, and men with the ultimate goal of returning them to self-sufficiency.  LAMP's program requires residents to undergo life skills classes, such as money management, parenting, resume writing, and job interview skills.  Residents must be pursuing a job, furthering their education, or actively working and saving at least half of their paycheck to continue living in the temporary housing facility. LAMP's motto is "a hand up, not a handout."  For more information about LAMP visit: www.lampinc.org.