Open Forum: Applauding WATTS’ effort to end homelessness

The Winchester Area Temporary Transitional Shelter (WATTS) program is a remarkable example of a total community effort. WATTS reaches out to homeless individuals in our community, with a mission to end homelessness one life at a time. In partnership with Winchester, Frederick County, and Clarke County churches, the WATTS program is backed by the support of countless individuals, families, businesses, civic organizations, foundations, and more who share their time, talents, and treasure in extraordinary acts of kindness.

Established in 2009, the nonprofit is best known for their overnight shelter. In operation for 21 weeks from November through March, the overnight shelter runs from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. every day. A weekly, rotating schedule means each “host” location only has to cover one full week of the season. This includes providing the volunteer manpower for the week and preparing and serving seven dinners and breakfasts. Many of the churches take their hospitality even further, offering blessings such as showers, clothing rooms, haircuts, fellowship and games, small gifts, TV/movies, and more.

The shelter can accommodate 35 guests per night. The cots and linens, which are owned by WATTS, are cleaned, and heavily laundered each week. Local company Mover Dudes volunteers their time each Saturday morning to transport the shelter items to the next location. Guests are ferried to and from the shelter locations each evening and morning via a bus WATTS owns.

In 2020, WATTS expanded the services they offer to include daytime programs. Operated in the winter and summer, the daytime shelters are a place of respite from extreme weather. They offer access to food, bathrooms, and resources. WATTS also now employs three year-round transition support staff who connect with guests to help them get the items they need to end their homelessness.

WATTS is a low-barrier shelter, meaning anyone age 18 or older can come in regardless of sobriety, criminal background, or other barriers. They are, however, required to follow basic behavioral rules while in the shelters. Guests are from all walks of life — some are newly homeless; others have been homeless for a long time. Eighty-five percent were born and raised here. Many are afflicted with mental health issues or are struggling with substance use disorders. All need our love and care.

Over 2,000 volunteers make WATTS a success each year. Methodist, Presbyterian, Baptist, Lutheran, Episcopal, and Pentecostal denominations are all involved, as well as numerous Christian/independent churches. Many other churches/denominations partner with these hosts to serve meals. At our best, this is what it means to be a follower of Christ — being the hands and feet of Jesus through practicing hospitality, generosity, and grace.

You can help WATTS through their upcoming fundraiser, “Coldest Night of the Year.” It is a winterrific walk through downtown Winchester on Feb. 24. Participants register now and raise funds by asking friends/family to donate, bringing awareness about WATTS and homelessness. The event is for everyone and concludes with a free, simple soup kitchen. More information is available at cnoy.com/winchester.

Find out more about WATTS at watts-homelessshelter.org.

 

Open Forum written and submitted by: MARK GUNDERMAN, a resident of Stephens City.