BEDFORD – A new program in Lawrence County is offering free access to showers, laundry, food, and other needed services.
SPIN – Supporting People In Need – opened on Monday, April 12. SPIN helps the homeless, individuals, and families in need within Lawrence County.
In addition to the above mentioned services, SPIN will also offer social, support, and transitional services while sharing the love of Christ and the message of the gospel from 9:00 a.m until 10:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church located at 1515 20th Street in Bedford.
“This program is designed not only for homeless people but other people who are struggling who may not have utilities, the capability to shower, do laundry or other needs not realized by those who have these services,” said Heather Beasley founder of the new program.
First Baptist Church is the location where the people can receive these services but partners from other churches, area businesses and volunteers have partnered together with one another to provide the services.
The Men’s Warming Shelter closes during the summer season, however other needs have been identified within the community that needs to be addressed on a year-long basis.
Homeless people struggle to find places to shower or do their laundry. Without good hygiene and clean clothes, it can hamper their efforts in their job search.
This program can give them the help and support to end their homelessness.
Others in the community may not be homeless but may lack the resources to provide these basic needs in their homes.
The process one would experience if they have the need to utilize the services provided by SPIN is outlined below.
Guests will be welcomed into the First Baptist Church Christian Life Center from 9:00 a.m – 10:00 a.m. Monday – Friday.
Three volunteers will be on-site at all times to help those with needs. Guests will be provided a hygiene bag with soap, washcloth, shampoo, toothbrush, and toothpaste.
Laundry may be left overnight and will be placed in a numbered bag. The clothes will then be laundered and ready for pick up.
Breakfast will be served and a bag lunch that includes non-perishable food and frozen water bottles will be offered. Various churches will provide supplies and packed lunches.
Social support and transitional services will be provided. These services will include applying for programs, finding jobs and housing.
Those volunteering to help individuals or families in need include Heather Beasley, Emily Carter, and Ginny Fullen.
Other churches are encouraged to volunteer and provide supplies to help create a whole community effort.
“Due to this being in infancy times, it may have to be adjusted to meet the needs of the community. However, to start off this program we felt like this would be the best time to offer these services, and provide a meal,” said Heather Beasley.
Service agencies such as Workforce One, Veterans Administration office, and The Lawrence County Health Department could be offered on a rotating basis.
To find out more about this program contact Heather Beasley at 812-797-2057.
