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What is our mobile shower unit?
It is a trailer that features three stalls: two shower stalls, each equipped with a shower and sink, and one medical stall designed to provide basic medical assistance to those in need.
Why is it needed?
Many of us take showers every day, sometimes more than once a day, and rarely think twice about the luxury it is. But showers do more than just make us clean. They help prevent disease by meeting basic hygiene needs and contribute to our overall well-being.They make us feel refreshed and confident about ourselves, something that is especially valuable before a job interview.
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At REFRESH BERKS, we believe that everyone in our community deserves access to the comfort and dignity of a warm shower. Unfortunately, there are very few places where individuals in need can take a shower. That’s why REFRESH BERKS is stepping in with a mobile solution designed to fill this critical gap.
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Our hope and prayer is that everyone who visits the mobile shower leaves with a renewed sense of dignity and hope. ​
How does it work?
The mobile shower unit will travel to various locations throughout Berks County. At each designated site, the trailer will be connected to a nearby water source, which will be heated to provide warm showers for those in need. Each individual will receive a towel, washcloth, essential toiletries, and a set of clean clothes after their shower.
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REFRESH BERKS staff and volunteers will be on-site for the duration of each event, helping to clean the stalls after each shower, greeting our neighbors, building relationships, and providing assistance in any way we can. We also hope to partner with other service providers to offer additional resources at each location alongside the shower trailer.
What are our next steps?
We plan to begin our initial trials of operating the trailer in the community in September 2025, starting with two to three dispatches per week. The trailer will be stored during the winter and resume operations in the spring of 2026. We are currently developing our fall schedule and confirming locations.
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To support these efforts, we are seeking local corporate sponsors to help cover maintenance costs and fund two staff positions. One employee will operate the truck and trailer as we travel to various locations across Berks County. The other will serve as the face of our organization, welcoming individuals who come for showers and acting as a point of contact for those interested in hosting the trailer at their location.​​
How can I support?
We are so glad you asked! While we now have a trailer and trunk, we rely on community support to keep our vision and mission sustainable. You can help by volunteering on shower days, donating money or items, or becoming a sponsor. Sponsors play a crucial role in helping us cover ongoing operational costs like staffing, maintenance, fuel, and supplies. Learn more and get involved here.
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