Willow Alaska United Methodist Church

The average medium household income in Willow is $37,000, with the cost of living 13% above the national average. The cost of living for groceries is 31% above the national average. The average income of those the ministry currently serves is well below this amount, probably $25,000 annually. Over 22% of the residents of Willow live below the US poverty level. Unemployment in Willow is about 7%, which is above the US average. As stated earlier, most jobs are seasonal or part time. Those looking for work have to have reliable transportation, and that is a problem for many individuals living in poverty. Churches in the community are small and under-staffed. Only one other clergy lives in the community, and there is no other full-time clergy. Having a clergy present offers the relational opportunities with members of the community who tend to be suspicious of outsiders.