Breakthrough Episcopal Social Services Opens New Clubhouse Locations

by the Rev. Andy Houltberg

Breakthrough Episcopal Social Services is thrilled to announce new partnerships with St. John’s Episcopal Church in Wichita and with St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Newton. 

The partnership with St. John’s marks a milestone for the organization. As part of this collaboration, Breakthrough’s housing team will be relocating to the church’s property at 401 N. Emporia—bringing it back to where it began serving the community through Episcopal Social Services in the 1980s. This move holds deep sentimental value, reconnecting Breakthrough with its roots and bringing it closer to the unhoused population the organization is committed to supporting.

In addition to the emotional significance, this move offers practical advantages. The new location ensures convenient access for those Breakthrough serves, strengthening ties with the community. Furthermore, it presents new opportunities, including meaningful work initiatives and the launch of a garden-scaping project, further enriching the lives of those under the organization’s care.

St. Matthew’s, Newton was in search of ways to support their neighbors who experience severe mental illness and is now building that support system for area residents with its Railway Clubhouse. Railway moved from a start-up location to a long-term home in October 2023 when the church offered their Rectory which had been empty. St. Matthew’s is committed to what membership in a Clubhouse guarantees to those who apply, “A place to come, meaningful relationships, meaningful work, a place to return.”

Since its inception in 2021, Breakthrough’s housing program has played a crucial role in addressing the pressing needs of individuals in Wichita who were navigating the complexities of the housing system. Many of these individuals faced imminent threats of homelessness due to difficulties in navigating the system or strained relationships with property owners. Through its pilot project, Breakthrough recognized its vital role in supporting the unhoused in the community. The lessons learned underscored the necessity of collaborative efforts among agencies and the holistic approach required to meet the diverse needs of individuals. Breakthrough has identified two key areas of support: guiding individuals toward stable housing through case management and providing peer support for housing stability. This support, grounded in the lived experience of the Breakthrough team, aims to dismantle barriers to housing. It serves to pave the way for a brighter future for those we assist, bringing back the hope that is often lost from the past.

Visit Breakthrough Episcopal Social Services online to learn more, volunteer, and donate.