Mobile Shower Rolled Out For Homeless People In Essex County

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — A New Jersey nonprofit is showering Essex County with some love – literally.

Power Changes Lives Inc. recently celebrated the deployment of LavaLove, a 29-foot, custom-designed, all-weather mobile hygiene shower trailer.

According to the nonprofit, LavaLove is “the first of its kind in New Jersey.” It comes equipped with three shower-sink-toilets, a washing machine and dryer, and an ancillary room for medical, dental, optometry and mental health services.

Its mission? To give thousands of hot showers and services to people experiencing homelessness – as well as other “neighbors in need.”

Earlier this month, LavaLove got some love of its own during a ribbon cutting ceremony at St. Matthew AME Church, 336 Oakwood Avenue in Orange (watch the video below, and take a peek inside here).

The mobile shower trailer is open at the Orange site on Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. People will also be able to take advantage of free services such as hot food, clothing, haircuts, medical screenings, vaccines and more.

“The right to hot, clean water, a meal, and access to basic services are fundamental human rights that many of the homeless are denied or lack daily,” President and CEO Penelope Lopez said.

“LavaLove and our partnership with the St. Matthew AME Church and the City of Orange will begin the healing process, helping those on their journey to wholeness,” Lopez added.

LavaLove expansion plans include a shower trailer in each of the 21 New Jersey counties by 2024, Power Changes Lives Inc. reported.

• See related article: Essex County Still Has The Most Homeless People In New Jersey

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