Celebrating 50 Years of Winchester CCAP

In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael is joined by Andrea Cosans, the executive director of Winchester CCAP, to celebrate their 50-year anniversary. The conversation begins with Andrea providing a history of CCAP, highlighting its origins and evolution over the decades. Initially founded by members of various church congregations to assist families struggling in the last week of the month, CCAP's mission has remained focused on helping neighbors in need with food, clothing, and financial aid. Andrea also shares anecdotes about the organization's journey, including its early locations and benefactors. She notes that JJ Smith and his family were significant supporters, helping CCAP secure its current building. Andrea explains her own arrival in Winchester and her path to becoming the first paid director of CCAP in 2020. The conversation then shifts to the changes in CCAP's services over the years. Andrea explains that while the organization had briefly strayed into homelessness services, they have since refocused on their original mission of homelessness prevention. This includes providing food, clothing, financial aid, and a self-sufficiency program designed to help clients achieve stable employment and housing. Andrea highlights several of CCAP's successful programs, such as the firewood program supported by local Rotary Clubs and Westminster Canterbury, which provides free or subsidized firewood to families in need. She emphasizes the importance of nonprofit collaboration and community support in sustaining CCAP's services. Fundraising is mentioned as a critical aspect of CCAP's operations, with events like the annual gala, bike event, and golf tournament contributing significantly to their budget. Andrea shares details about their upcoming gala being held on October 24, 2024, at George Washington Wyndham Grand Hotel. The event will feature a fashion show with local models wearing outfits from CCAP's clothing house. The dinner menu is inspired by CCAP's food pantry. Limited tickets are still available and can be purchased by clicking here. Follow them on Facebook to stay up to date on events, fundraisers, volunteer opportunities and more.