Frank Lawler's Operation Nightwatch Fundraiser
A nonprofit fundraiser supporting
Operation NightwatchNightwatch walks alongside our homeless neighbors on their journey off the streets.
$2,200
raised by 8 people
$2,000 goal
1
match
Live
Please Stay
A street ministry snapshot from our executive director, Deacon Frank DiGirolamo:
It’s late evening and I’m walking around the neighborhood. Folks are gathered in a doorway using substances and tensions rise between two men. A fist is thrown. I decide to create a distraction and say “Hi.”
Quickly, several people are standing in front of me. They notice my clerical garb, and decide I’m a friend. They want to talk. I uneasily mention something about having to get somewhere. Their reaction is swift, “Please stay! We need you out here.” And soon after, folks are sharing their favorite Scriptures. It’s amazing how the mood has lifted.
Looking back, I realize that voice, “Please Stay! We need you out here…”, is the essence of Nightwatch’s ministries. It’s the voice of the one who is suffering from hunger, loneliness, addiction, violence, rejection. We hear the invitation. We show up in Love, to interrupt the pain. To create a space in which we can be reminded that we’re all loved. At least for a moment.
Dear supporters, thank you for all the ways you show up! I humbly echo this voice when I say with the same urgency, “Please stay! We need you out here.” Your generosity allows us to meet folks where they are, and accompany them on their next step.
Originally appeared in the March 2024 issue of Nightwatch News.
Operation Nightwatch is one of the only homeless support organizations in Seattle that provides evening and late-night options for food, shelter and other services.
- Food – Volunteers and staff work together to prepare a hot meal for about 150 homeless people every night.
- Case management is offered to those needing support.
- Guests are transported to local overnight shelters where they can be warm and safe.
- Senior Housing - We provide permanent affordable housing for 24 seniors.
- Street Ministry - Nightwatch street ministers and committed volunteers distribute food, socks, blankets, and water to homeless adults outside. Just as importantly, our team reaches out with human contact and friendship to these oft-forgotten neighbors.
Please be generous in your support.