Christmas Cheer For Warington’s homeless, lonely and vulnerable

UNSUNG heroes have been helping deliver some much needed festive cheer to Warrington’s homeless, lonely and vulnerable throughout the Christmas season.
Volunteers from Warrington Open Door At Christmas (WODAC) have set-up a special drop in centre for members of the local community, offering a lifeline at what can be a desperate time of year.
WODAC offers friendship, support, advice, hot meals, refreshments, toiletries, games, clothes and a listening ear – from a base at St John’s United Reformed Church Hall on Wilderspool Causeway. A team of around 70 volunteers, backed by support from the local community, including churches and businesses, help spread some welcome Christmas magic – with food parcels and presents also delivered across the town to families and individuals.
The organisation was founded by John Campbell in 1991 in response to increased concern and awareness of the rise in homelessness and isolation at a time of year when most other support agencies are not available. Last year one person walked all the way from Widnes to take advantage of the hospitality.
Committee member Steve Day explained: “WODAC is open each day over the Christmas holidays, offering a place where people can come to talk, have something to eat and meet other people. If they are homeless they can receive information and practical help with accommodation.”
An average of 60-70 meals are served each day until the New Year, according to Steve who added: “We are here to help the homeless, lonely, isolated and vulnerable. Christmas is a time for everyone! I remember how we once assisted a lady who suffered a heart attack. She had four children and as her benefits weren’t processed in time for Christmas (with the offices closed down) she couldn’t put any food on the table let alone afford presents. One guy fell on hard times but has turned his life around and is now one of our many volunteers.”
WODAC has links with the town’s YMCA, as Steve concluded: “To be honest we need a bigger site as we’ve sort of outgrown this facility. We’re here to bring some Christmas cheer at what can be a very emotional and challenging time of year for many. It’s a mix of circumstances. We’d like to thank everyone who helps us. It’s a real community effort.”