| PRESS RELEASE | FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Joshua Kinney Director of Marketing & Communications Phone: 484-557-1601 jkinney@missiondc.org |
| Washington, DC — January 23, 2026 — With a major winter storm forecast to impact the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia area beginning Saturday night into Monday, Central Union Mission stands ready to offer essential refuge and support for people experiencing homelessness. Meteorologists suggest this storm could bring significant snow and ice for many parts of the region along with bitterly cold temperatures and hazardous travel conditions. “For individuals living on the streets, a winter storm isn’t just an inconvenience, it can be life-threatening,” said Mission President & CEO Joe Mettimano. “As this powerful winter system moves in, Central Union Mission’s doors are open, and our team is fully mobilized to provide warmth, shelter, and care to those in need.” How Central Union Mission Is Responding: Central Union Mission will remain open and fully operational throughout the storm, offering: Grocery distribution for families on Friday, January 23, at Mission: NOVA in Northern Virginia Safe, warm emergency shelter Nutritious meals and hot beverages Warm clothing and blankets Showers and laundry services A welcoming, compassionate environment for rest and support “For our neighbors without stable housing, this storm truly poses a health risk,” added Mettimano. “Our staff and volunteers are preparing now to make sure anyone who needs warmth and care has a place to come.” How to Get Help: If you or someone you know needs shelter during the storm, please visit Central Union Mission at 65 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, D.C., or call (202) 745-7118. How to Help: Central Union Mission’s lifesaving services are made possible through the generosity of private donors. To support this work and help those in need during this winter storm, please visit www.missiondc.org/donate. No one should have to endure the cold alone. Central Union Mission is here to help. Media Inquiries: For more information, to arrange interviews, or to learn more about Central Union Mission’s winter operations, please contact Joshua Kinney, Director of Marketing & Communications at jkinney@missiondc.org or call 484-557-1601 About Central Union Mission: Central Union Mission, Washington, DC’s oldest private social service agency and a faith-driven 501(c)(3) nonprofit, offers a comprehensive array of services to men, women and children in need from DC, Virginia and Maryland. Beyond offering over 60,000 bed-nights annually at its emergency shelter, the Mission’s shelter provides a full suite of transformational programs. Our Comprehensive Family Resource Center provides food and clothing to approximately 5,000 individuals monthly, as well as transformative wrap-around services. Our Mission: NOVA center in south Arlington provides critically needed social services, as well as food and clothing. All three facilities use a co-located service model providing onsite job training/placement, education, help with addictions, ESL classes, parenting classes, healthcare, assistance to veterans and senior citizens, legal aid, assistance with housing, spiritual discipleship and more. Additionally, the Mission operates a camp for underprivileged children and a 24-bed transition home. Our reputation is reflected in our four-star rating from Charity Navigator, Platinum Seal for financial transparency from Candid, and Top-Rated award from Great Non-Profits.  |