June 10, 2010

AUGUSTA---Women fighting cancer are not alone thanks to an Augusta ministry that reaches around the world.

The Lydia Project started small, sending hand-stitched totes to local women fighting cancer. Volunteers fill the handbags with scripture and messages of hope.

Those messages have now spread to women in cities all across the US and a dozen other countries. Last year, Lydia received thousands of requests.

"We get prayer cards and requests from women who, when they're writing to us, are asking for help," said project director Michelle Canchola. "They're alone. They've been thrust into this world of cancer diagnosis. They may not have a network of church or family, co-worker or community. But they have Lydia."

Lydia also helps with rent, utilities and medicine.

You can help the effort. This month, the Lydia Project is hosting its 6th annual dessert auction, Thursday, June 17 at the Historic Richmond on Greene.

Tickets are $25, and all the money goes to support this ministry for women with cancer.

To find out more, visit thelydiaproject.org or call 706-736-5467.