A new mobile shower program has officially launched in Burnaby to help those who are living on the street or less fortunate.
On Thursdays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at The Neighbourhood Church (7135 Walker Ave.), the Burnaby Society to End Homelessness will operate a two-stall trailer for those seeking a shower.
It's the first program of its kind in Metro Vancouver.
The stalls are equipped with a shower, toilet and washbasin. They are also insulated, heated and air-conditioned so they can operate year-round.
Each bathroom also includes a touchless faucet sink, hand dryer, magic mirror with built-in radio and Bluetooth, systematic disinfection by UV light and antibacterial walls.
"This will give our folks that don't have a roof over their head, a chance to be clean," executive director Carol-Ann Flanagan said at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday (April 19).
"We know that a lot of our homeless folks have one or two health issues and hygiene is a big step up for them. So we are very, very happy and proud that we're able to offer this service to our guests."
The society applied for funding from the Union of British Columbia Municipalities roughly 18 months ago, Flanagan said. The city also contributed to the program.
"When we look at this little facility here, it's so important to bring back dignity to people who are on our streets or who are less fortunate," Mayor Mike Hurley said at the event.
"I know many of us who are fortunate to have homes and can wake up in the morning and go and have a shower. We don't recognize that. But it's the simple things that make such a difference in the lives of people who are so unfortunate to be on our streets."
Showers will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis with a maximum of six users per hour. Towels and hygiene supplies will also be provided to guests.
