BEAUFORT, S.C. () — The initiative is known as the Showers of Dignity Project, originally led by the late Becky Francis, is now carried forward by the United Way of the Lowcountry.

This mission is brought to life through a mobile shower trailer, which will soon make its debut in the Lowcountry.

“Imagine, you know, the sweltering heat that we have. They’re going to be able to come in, take a nice shower, put on clean clothes and then maybe go to that job interview,” said Chrystie Turner, Executive Vice President of United Way of the Lowcountry.

The project provides hot showers, clean clothes, and valuable resources for people in need across Beaufort and Jasper Counties.

“This is an opportunity for individuals to become self-sufficient,” said Turner.

The service is designed to help a wide range of people, from those experiencing homelessness to individuals living below the poverty line or those who have lost access to water or power during a natural disaster.

The 24-foot mobile trailer is equipped with its own generator, powering up the 400-gallon water tank, which supports two private shower stalls, as well as a washer and dryer for fresh clothes.

“We can do 18 showers at a time and a load of laundry with our 400 gallons,” explained Angela Boswell, the Community Impact Manager of United Way of the Lowcountry.

In addition to the showers, essential hygiene supplies are also provided to everyone who uses the trailer. This includes new socks, underwear, shirts, and sweatpants, ensuring that individuals leave with a sense of dignity and hope.

The fresh shower and clean clothes are just the beginning. United Way of the Lowcountry’s goal is to use the mobile trailer as a first step toward self-sufficiency for those in need.

“We will be a traveling resource center. We’re going to try to get them employed. We’re going to try to get healthcare services to them, mental health services, all through the Showers of Dignity trailer,” Turner said.

The Showers of Dignity initiative is supported by generous sponsors who help keep the trailer running. However, the United Way of the Lowcountry is also calling on the community to help by donating extra toiletry supplies.

If you’d like to contribute, you can drop off your donations at these two locations.

Beaufort/Jasper County (Main Office): 1277 Ribaut Road.

(843)-982-3040

Hilton Head/Bluffton office: 10 Buckingham Plantation Drive, Suite D.

(843)-837-2000

They are also looking for volunteers to help run the Showers of Dignity trailer.