Purpose-built shower facilities available for homeless in Mandurah

DAILY hot showers are taken for granted by most people.

But not for all, a fact that inspired City of Mandurah Councillor Lynn Rodgers to do something about it.

At the opening of the new Tuart Avenue Street to Home Service, Mrs Rodgers told the story of a homeless woman in Mandurah who collected her son from school, rode the trains all night to Wellington Street where they could have a hot shower and wash his school uniform, and then returned to Mandurah.

The story really got to Mrs Rodgers, who found there were no public hot showers in Mandurah.

The Street to Home Service offers the homeless a free hot shower, mentoring, referrals, friendship, clean towels, shampoo and coffee, and is run by volunteers.

“People ask every day where they can have a hot shower,’’ Ms Rodgers said.

“It’s something we take for granted and I hope the idea spreads throughout WA.’’

Mandurah MLA David Templeman paid tribute to Mrs Rodgers.

“Without people like Lynn, we would not have a place like this,’’ he said.

“We should never be ashamed to show compassion (and never) ostracise people who do not have the same values as ourselves.

“Putting up your hand in friendship is more important.”

The hub is in the former Anglicare/Finucare building behind Mandurah Library. It is open Monday and Wednesday from 9am to noon.