GoFundMe account set up to support miners after Blackjewel closure

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WTVQ) – Eastern Kentucky miners left unemployed after a coal company suddenly shut down its mines are getting some support with the establishment of a GoFundMe account.

Community Action Kentucky announced Wednesday the account was set up by Harlan County Community Action to support miners who worked for Blackjewel LLC.

Blackjewel filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on July 1, leaving 1,100 workers unemployed across the Appalachian region, including hundreds in Eastern Kentucky.

Employees received final paychecks on June 28, 2019, only to have them pulled from bank accounts on July 1.

Harlan County Community Action says it set up the GoFundMe account to directly help miners and their families meet immediate needs such as mortgage assistance, rent, utilities and food and that all money donated is tax deductible and will go directly to impacted workers.

To donate directly through the GoFundMe account, go to www.gofundme.com/f/DonatetominersHarlanCAA.

Donations can also be dropped off at the Harlan County Community Action Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 319 Camden Street in Harlan.