Mt. Vernon, IL is a town that is rebuilding itself as it seeks a new identity. The railway industry pulled out of Mt. Vernon years ago and now the remaining jobs are not as easily found. Oil and coal were once big in this area, but those opportunities are fewer. While some wealth has endured in the area, the average Mt. Vernon family must work hard to make ends meet. Surrounding Mt. Vernon is a farming community that finds itself struggling as well. With primarily low-paying jobs available, many of the residents of Mt. Vernon's Jefferson County find themselves strugglling to afford decent housing. Over 70% of the children in the public school system are on the assisted lunch program. In recent years, devastating storms have ravaged the area, leaving the poorest of the community with home repair costs far beyond their means. Coming to Mt. Vernon means giving a boost to a community that is looking to turn a corner. While the community leaders seek to revive the downtown businesses and attract manufacturing employers, many within the community need help with their basic living conditions.