This is the time of the year that Kentucky WMU distributes grants from the Eliza Broadus Offering for Kentucky Missions. A total of $135,000 was recently given for work by Baptist associations and a variety of ministries across Kentucky. As we read the applications, it is exciting to know that we can have a small part through our state missions offering. Let me share how some of the funds will be used.

HR Ministries will be sharing Jesus this August with people who have come to Western Kentucky for the best viewing place in the world of the 2017 solar eclipse. EBO funds will assist SolQuest in providing Christian music, notable Christian speakers, and Christian festival-type activities.

Christian County Restorative Justice Jail Ministry will buy Bibles and Survival Kits (discipleship material) for inmates at the county jail. Grace and Mercy, a new transitional home in Hopkinsville, will use their EBO grant to help in continued ministry with women coming out of incarceration.

Happy Trails Ministry will use an EBO grant to help in outreach to people in the equestrian community who seldom attend a traditional church. Chris Clarke travels to equestrian events where he preaches and distributes Cowboy Bibles. In his 14th year, people at the horse shows now recognize Happy Trails as part of their culture, and have become more open in sharing on a deeper, more personal level

Baptist Fellowship Center in Louisville will use EBO funds to help reach community children through Bible studies, recreation, arts and crafts, and mission projects. Kentucky Racetrack Chaplaincy will use EBO funds for ministry at Churchill Downs on the Backside. Last year more than 6,000 people attended services at Christ Chapel located on site.

Scarlet Hope will use EBO funds to provide job training for women who are transitioning out of the adult entertainment industry. Their gospel centered program walks women through a year of counseling, care, discipleship, support and recovery, job training, and more.

These are just a few of the ways that EBO funds will be used in 84 ministries and 70 associations this year. Thank you for giving. EBO funds are received monthly and we are praying to reach the 2016-17 goal of $1,250,000. A total of $1,076,609 has been received through the end of January. Gifts may be sent by mail or made online at kywmu.org/givenow. We will continue to receive 2016-17 EBO gifts through Aug. 31.