The Social Spin Foundation operates under the knowledge that the first step to bettering health is ensuring basic needs are met. That is why the Arizona nonprofit provides free showers to unsheltered neighbors: to improve health, comfort, safety, and community economic health.
With the help of grant funding from the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona Foundation for Community & Health Advancement, Social Spin launched a new program called Showering the Unsheltered. The program is an extension of Social Spins’ purpose-driven free laundromats that connect 150+ customers to care and clean clothes every week.
Every customer at Social Spin’s Phoenix location is now offered a shower and a hygiene kit that includes products and clean towels. Over the course of a year, the Social Spin Foundation is hoping to provide 1,300 showers to those in need.
Christy Moore, Social Spin Foundation Board President, said some of the best feedback she has heard from customers is “staying fresh makes it easier to make friends,” “it helps with self-esteem,” and “it provides a sense of dignity.”
Social Spin isn’t stopping at showers, as they believe everyone deserves a fresh feeling and a fresh start. The nonprofit is building its new laundromat in Central Phoenix, which will include dozens of affordable housing units on top because they consider housing a human right.
As Social Spin expands and finds new ways to serve the community, it’s staying true to its original mission. Every week, Social Spin hosts Wash with Care Wednesday at its locations in Phoenix and Mesa. Not only do people get free laundry services, but there are also community partners onsite who serve hot meals and connect those who need it to care like diabetes management support.
The Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona Foundation is proud to partner with Social Spin to address health equity! If you would like to help, Social Spin has donation and volunteer opportunities.
This information is provided for educational purposes only. Individuals should always consult with their healthcare providers regarding medical care or treatment, as recommendations, services or resources are not a substitute for the advice or recommendation of an individual's physician or healthcare provider. Services or treatment options may not be covered under an individual's particular health plan.