In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomes Robyn Miller, Executive Director of WATTS (Winchester Area Temporary Transitional Shelter) to talk about their annual event, The Coldest Night of the Year. The event aims to raise awareness about homelessness by having participants walk in the cold to simulate the experience of the homeless community. This year marks the third occasion of the walk, which funds nearly a quarter of the WATTS budget, helping to provide crucial services like warming centers, overnight shelters, and identification documents for the homeless.

Robyn explains the essential work done by WATTS, including their low-barrier shelters, bus transportation for guests, and their Transition Out of Homelessness program, which has been increasingly successful in helping people obtain IDs, get into rehab, and find housing. The conversation highlights the importance of small donations and volunteer efforts, which collectively make a significant impact. They emphasize how participation in the event fosters community awareness and compassion for the homeless.

Participants can register for the walk online and may contribute either through monetary donations or in-kind items like t-shirts and snacks. The conversation underscores the value of meeting people where they are and providing them with basic necessities and emotional support. The event, scheduled for February 22nd, also aims to make homelessness more visible to the public, thereby encouraging more community involvement and understanding.

More information about the event and WATTS services can be found on the organization's website: https://watts-homelessshelter.org/ and their Facebook page as well as through The Coldest Night of the Year's official page: https://cnoy.com/location/winchester