Why Quitman County?

In 2016, the leadership of Reclaimed Project began to feel the call to expand the work of the Reclaimed Project, and we believed the Lord was inviting us to be a part of His plan for the Mississippi Delta. Through a divine appointment, we came to  Marks, and we began to meet with citizens and community leaders to listen to their thoughts on the needs of the area. A common concern was the education of the county's children. We were granted a meeting with Dr. Evelyn Jossell, the newly elected Superintendent of Quitman County Schools. The question was posed to Dr. Jossell. “What do you need?”

Her reply was quick and direct. “We need teachers. We need housing for teachers so they do not have to live outside of the district, and we need Jesus.” We knew immediately that the Reclaimed Project had to be a part of meeting the district’s needs. Joining in with like-minded people in Marks, we saw the potential of a vacant Masonic Lodge building on Main Street. It could provide housing for teachers and a site for community events and meetings in Marks.

Through God’s faithful provision, we began the process of renovating the building. 16 months later, the building, known as The Village, now has the capacity to house 5 full-time teachers and provides a venue for the community.