We found another impressive local organization that wants to make our community better!

It is the Washington Christian Outreach (WCO). The WCO is a non-profit, non-denominational Christian organization.  They are driven by compassion, to spread the Gospel and fulfill the material and spiritual needs of the underprivileged in the Washington community.

WCO was founded more than 40 years ago by a local housewife, Jeanne Allender when a friend at a Bible study had a bag of clothes and asked her if she knew anyone that could use them.   Jeanne started this ministry out of the trunk of her car.  Then to her house. Then to a church. Then finally, to the current building where her mission continues today.

The WCO — a 100% volunteer organization — operates Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and is located at 119 Highland Avenue (across from Family Dollar) in Washington.

Its dedicated team of 100 volunteers provides nutritious hot meals and access to a FREE community store for people to obtain groceries, clothing, kids’ toys, and necessities. Each person who comes through the door registers to be eligible for clothing, meals, and other essentials at no cost. This helps volunteers better understand an individual’s circumstances and enables them to follow-up with ongoing material and spiritual needs, if necessary.

The organization accepts food (perishable and non-perishable), clothing, and monetary donations. The most vital aspect of operations is its kitchen. Modest and with typical residential appliances, the kitchen is used by talented culinary volunteers to produce amazing meals. If you are considering an appliance upgrade, the WCO would greatly appreciate your generous donation of appliances in excellent working condition. And, if you’d like to “get your smile on,” the WCO is happy to welcome new volunteers inside and outside of the kitchen.

To donate food and other items, please contact the Outreach through its website to schedule a drop-off time. Currently, monetary donations of a check, cash, or money order can be taken at the Outreach during hours of operation, or your check or money order can be mailed to P.O. Box 1659, Washington, PA 15301.

Branch Creative Group is excited to be teaming up with the Washington Christian Outreach by developing a new website that will enable the organization to accept online donations and promote fundraisers and special events. They plan to have a Back-to-School Book Bag event and a 5K late summer, details will be on the new website.  If your company is interested in providing in-kind services, please call 724-222-0750 and speak with Debbie Boardley to become a partner and help support our local Washington County community!