The human needs of Appalachia relate to developments of a post-industrial economy in America, where social attitudes and political policies toward dependent populations (the young, the old, the disabled, and the unemployed) and toward ownership and management of capital and resources have contributed to the extensive poverty of the region. These American attitudes and policies combine presently to create profound consequences especially for women and members of racial minorities. These consequences have required and will continue to require changes in the roles of labor, families, non-profit groups, men and women, schools and churches. These consequences and changes in Appalachia parallel and excede those which are apparent nationwide. This report examines economic and social trends and issues in the Appalachian region for the past decade or more and relates Appalachia's recent economic experiences to national trends. Information is organized under five broad headings: population changes; economy, industry, and employment; unemployment and income; human needs and services; and institutional contexts. Information includes 40 figures and illustrations and a bibliography of 79 entries. Appendices contain a supplementary report on the region's economic structure with recommendations for economic development. (JHZ)