John Wesley UMC was one of the founding congregations when the REACH Cold Weather Shelter for the homeless was established in 1996.  Since that time we have continued to support our brothers and sisters in need with our time, gifts, talents and prayers.

The shelter is open from the end of October through the beginning of April, and each year churches in the community commit to serving as “host church” for a week. The host church has the responsibility of recruiting all volunteers to work at the front desk, prepare breakfast and dinner and clean up afterwards, run the laundry facilities, and spend time talking with the shelter residents.  Although many of us serve at the shelter all winter, John Wesley UMC typically serves as host church during March.  It’s a big week for the congregation as we step out into the community and do what we can to ensure that the less fortunate have a nutritious meal, a hot shower, clean clothes, a warm bed and a friendly smile.

Cooking and serving dinner for 75 hungry people (residents plus volunteers) takes a lot of planning and preparation. Year after year support comes from such groups as:  Bible Study groups, Wilson Wright Circle #1, Martha Van Brunt Circle #2, Susanna Circle #7, JWUMC Service Team, the Good Vibrations Handbell Choir, and the Chancel Choir.

 “The King will reply, I tell you the truth,

whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.”  

If you would like more information on REACH of Washington County, click here.

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