(COLORADO SPRINGS) — Since 2022, the “Shower to the People” (STTP) ministry has been providing showers to people who live outside or in their vehicles and don’t have access to hygiene facilities. The church partners that run STTP plan to expand the ministry and are looking for volunteers to help increase the number of days the service is available.

In the past, Springs Rescue Mission was the only location that provided shower facilities to those facing homelessness, leaving an overwhelming need for many in the community. STTP was started by Sanctuary Church in 2022, utilizing a historic carriage house on the property that was remodeled to add four shower stalls. Sacred Heart Parish joined the ministry in 2023 to expand the shower availability.

Volunteers open the showers every week for several hours on Sundays and Thursdays, serving 65-70 men and women, but the demand is greater than the availability. Shower services have served people living in their cars or on the streets and have included children, seniors, veterans, people living on disability, and those dealing with medical emergencies.

Often the people who use the services have not bathed in several days or weeks and may desperately need a shower for a job interview or a court appearance.

Homelessness has been on the rise, and STTP is looking to expand the services to provide showers on Tuesdays as well. Volunteers from other parishes and faith communities are encouraged to join the ministry to help with the expansion. Volunteers serve on monthly teams, and they help to manage participants and resources and clean the facilities.

STTP provides a clean pair of underwear and socks to each participant, so they have something clean to put on after their shower. Donations of socks and underwear are needed to continue this service.

For more information on how to get involved or make a donation, contact Grace at [email protected].