Front Royal Programs Highlight Housing, Food, and Community Support

In Front Royal, local leaders say helping neighbors in need takes more than one program; it takes a full community effort. That message came through clearly as Nichole Johns, Program Coordinator, and Michelle Smeltzer, Community Liaison with the Department of Social Services, shared updates during a recent interview on outreach efforts across the region.

Nichole Johns, Program Coordinator, and Michelle Smeltzer, Community Liaison with the Department of Social Services, join Mike McCool in the Royal Examiner studio to discuss community programs and outreach efforts.

One of the most visible events is the upcoming Empty Bowl Supper, a fundraiser supporting the House of Hope. The event brings together local restaurants, artists, and residents for an evening centered on food and connection.

“This is our fundraiser for the House of Hope,” Smeltzer said, explaining that community members help paint bowls that guests can take home after the dinner. “It’s a really nice little dinner event.”

The House of Hope itself continues to play a key role in the area. The transitional housing program is currently full, serving men who are working toward stable jobs and independent living.

“We’re full. We’ve been full for the last several months,” Smeltzer said. She added that success is measured by what happens next. “We’re happy to see them go and move forward.”

Another upcoming event offers both a service and a way to give back. Shred Day is set for May 7 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Front Royal Volunteer Fire Department on Commerce Avenue. The event allows residents to safely dispose of sensitive documents, with donations supporting the fire department.

During the colder months, the region’s thermal shelter provides another layer of support. This past season, about 70 people used the shelter, along with several pets. Johns said the goal is not just to provide a place to stay, but to help people find longer-term solutions.

“We had a very successful season,” Johns said, noting that some individuals were able to move into housing, reconnect with family, or return to their home communities.

Beyond housing, food access remains a steady focus. The department distributes a range of items, from shelf-stable goods to frozen and refrigerated food. In recent years, they have also added “dinner in a bag” kits to help families prepare meals at home.

“We’ve been doing that for about a year or two,” Smeltzer said, pointing to partnerships and grants that help fund the effort.

Basic supplies are also available. Diapers, wipes, and adult care items are offered to families in need, thanks in part to support from local nonprofit groups.

Fundraising continues to be essential to keeping these programs running. The annual “Coldest Night of the Year” walk came close to its goal, raising more than $47,000.

“Our goal was $50,000 this year, and we came in at a little over $47,000,” Johns said.

Other community events and volunteer opportunities continue throughout the year, with organizers encouraging residents to get involved wherever they can.

Taken together, the programs reflect a broader mission: helping people move from difficult situations toward stability. Whether it’s a warm meal, a safe place to stay, or a step toward a new job, each effort plays a part.

As Smeltzer noted during the interview, the work is ongoing, but so is the support from the community that makes it possible.

Town Talk, sponsored by National Media Services, Inc., is a Royal Examiner series that introduces you to local entrepreneurs, business owners, nonprofit leaders, and public officials who help shape Warren County. Conversations cover a wide range of topics about our community and the people making a difference.