ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) — The Albany Rescue Mission has teamed up with Unleashed Ministries to offer showers and laundry services to people in need.

“Showering is something we all really take for granted. Sometimes the people that come, they have been weeks, if not months, without a hot shower,” said Amanda Griffin with Unleashed Ministries.

How the partnership started

Kelly Smith of the Albany Rescue Mission wanted to bring the service to the community. Smith reached out to Griffin, whose organization was already providing showers in Tifton by renting out a hotel room every Friday.

“She knows the ins and outs. So I just asked her if she would be willing to start that here. And she was on board. She was 100% ready to get it started. And it’s taken us some months to get it all together and get our schedules coincided. But all in all, this is what’s come of it,” Smith said.

What people received

People who needed a shower also were given toiletries, new clothes, and shoes. Others were able to wash their clothes. Organizers also offered a prayer to anyone who needed it.

“I honestly don’t know why it’s not done more or why I didn’t think about doing it sooner. But God’s timing is perfect. It really is,” Griffin said.

Volunteers and donors stopped by with underwear, laundry detergent, and soap.

“I would say, you know, 10 to 12 people that showed up. And we just put the flyer out on Monday this week. So people have showed up and showed out. And it’s just good to see where God takes this,” Smith said.

How to help

Smith and Griffin said people often ask how they can help, but aren’t sure where to start. They said small acts matter, including giving time to someone in need.

“It’s something real humbling to be able to meet someone in that moment where they have come and they have sought help. And to be able to be the one to help restore dignity in their lives,” Griffin said.

People who want to donate items can drop them off at the Albany Rescue Mission or send money through Cash App to $HelpingGodsChildren1.

The next shower and laundry day is Dec. 11. Organizers said they hope to host the event on the first and last Friday of every month in the new year.

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