For individuals experiencing homelessness, access to basic services, such as hot showers and laundry facilities, can be life changing. Since April 2025, The Salvation Army’s Connection Point Church and Resource Centre in Langford, B.C., is offering private showers and laundry service through a new initiative called the Dignity Project. The program gives unhoused individuals the chance to meet essential needs with comfort and privacy.

The idea was born from conversations with clients who already accessed services at Connection Point.

“I think what we are seeing through the Dignity Project is a real transforming influence,” says Captain Laura Hickman, corps officer. “It’s beautiful to be able to have a service that meets a very basic, practical need.”

So far, the operation has run smoothly.

“It has worked well to have an open-door, first-come, first-served system without appointments,” Captain Hickman says. “Up to this point, the demand has been met.”

While the laundry facilities are very useful, it’s the private showers that seem to impact the clients the most.

“One of our clients mentioned she got emotional standing in the shower. She said the water was hot and felt so refreshing. She appreciated the privacy,” Captain Hickman shares. “It makes a world of difference for our friends to come in and to have a private shower.”

Guests are invited to enjoy a cup of coffee at the on-site café while waiting for laundry or after showering.

“This project came as a direct result of the community coming together and transforming this space,” Captain Hickman says.

The staff noticed unused space in Connection Point’s basement. The landlord generously allowed the area to be transformed, and local developers partnered with community stakeholders to renovate it as a gift to The Salvation Army.

“We’re just grateful. It was a tremendous gift,” Captain Hickman adds.

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