This past week our Shower Program, located within the Homeless Outreach and Advocacy Project (HOAP) clinic site, received funding from the City of Worcester to update our shower and bathroom. The Shower Program provides access to showers, shower supplies, hygiene support, food, and clean clothes. This program helps meet the immediate need of those experiencing homelessness in Worcester whole also improving their access to mental health, recovery, and/or permanent housing assistance.

“Our Shower Program meets the immediate needs of those experiencing homelessness in Worcester while improving access to mental health, recovery, and/or permanent housing assistance,” said Donna Pierce-Judkins, Senior Director, Intensive Case Management, and manager of the Community Healthlink’s Shower Program. “Also, the timing for the funding is perfect, as we have just completed upgrading and modernizing the shower and bathroom areas.”

“It’s the one time a week I feel like a normal human being,” one participant said.

The grant will cover various activities, including:

• Staffing: Caregivers to run the day-to-day operation and maintain the facilities.

• Laundry and Linen Services: Providing clean clothing, towels, and bedding, contributing to participants' overall comfort and cleanliness.

• Food and Water: Offering nourishing meals and clean drinking water to program participants, addressing their immediate nutritional needs.

• Supplies: Distributing hygiene kits containing essential items such as soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, and personal care products.

Thank you to the City of Worcester for providing the funds from the American Rescue Plan Act and the State and Local Fiscal Relief Funds for making it all possible.