Out of the Pond and into the Boat

So many years of meeting homeless and wishing I could give them more than a few dollars. Instead of giving them a fish to carry them over for a day I asked myself "How can I help them learn to fish and feed them for a lifetime". 

Last year, a friend of mine introduced me to Operation Nightwatch and extended an invitation to serve on the board of directors. I have rubbed shoulders serving with the men and women who are out there, day and night, providing comfort, connection and hope to so many people on the street. Serving them food, counseling, prayer and shelter, trying to help them get out of the pond and onto the boat. And now I am in a position to raise and direct funds to expand services such as medical and shelter, case work and more, providing the safety net that the rest of us take for granted.

After other human services offices have closed for the day, Operation Nightwatch remains open, providing evening and late-night options for food and shelter. 

Here's how we help:

Food -- Every night at 8 pm, Nightwatch volunteers prepare and serve a hot, indoor meal for about 150 people.

Shelter -- Nightwatch provides emergency shelter for 65 men every night and 10 women 2+ nights per week.

Case management -- Our Case Manager helps our shelter guests find and connect with resources like jobs and housing.

Senior Housing -- Permanent affordable housing is provided for 24 formerly-homeless seniors in a dorm-style setting, with shared kitchens and bathrooms. Our Housing Coordinator helps to keep our seniors safe and housed by providing meals, friendship, and support.

Street Ministry -- Nightwatch street ministers and committed volunteers provide food and friendship to people experiencing homeless outside. Street teams provide a wide range of services, including ID replacement, bus tickets home, information and referrals. Socks, blankets, food and water are distributed as well.

Volunteers -- Nightwatch cannot function without volunteers. Volunteers help with nightly feeding, street outreach, mentoring, office support, baking, and numerous other ways. Check our website.

Nightwatch provides food, shelter, housing, and hope. Please join us.