Asheville Gears Up for Hurricane Relief Thanks to Nashville Nonprofit
As the winds pick up and the rain begins to fall, Asheville residents are feeling the impact of the recent hurricane. In the midst of this chaos, a sparkling beacon of hope is making its way down from Nashville—ShowerUp, a local nonprofit known for providing mobile showers and laundry services to the unhoused community, is heading to Asheville to offer support in this time of crisis.
A Special Mission
ShowerUp is stepping out of its usual operations to respond to the urgent needs of hurricane victims. This proactive decision was shared on their social media platforms, where they explained, “ShowerUp does not normally do disaster relief, so we do not budget for it at all. This means we need your help—We are asking for emergency funds.”
This heartfelt call for assistance indicates the **realities of nonprofit funding**. ShowerUp is gearing up to transport their shower and laundry trailers approximately six hours away to help those affected by the hurricane. With the unpredictable length of their stay, the costs are adding up quickly, and they cannot embark on this journey alone.
The Journey Begins
Founded in the fall of 2016 by Paul and Rhonda, ShowerUp has filled an essential gap for those experiencing homelessness in Nashville. Paul transitioned from a rewarding 30+ year career in Christian radio to devote his time to ShowerUp full-time. Rhonda, meanwhile, manages the operations at Hattie Jane’s Creamery. Their devotion has made quite an impact over the years, providing crucial services that simply weren’t available before.
It quickly became clear to them that many cities across the country offered meals, clothing, and necessities. However, few places catered to access to hot showers and basic hygiene. This realization sparked the launch of ShowerUp, a mobile solution that has made hygiene accessible to those who might otherwise go without. They have changed countless lives, providing dignity and comfort in times of need.
Why This Matters
This outreach to Asheville is not just about donning raincoats and handing out towels. It’s about meeting the basic needs of individuals who have had their lives uprooted by the hurricane. Taking a shower and getting clean clothes is crucial for people who might be feeling lost and afraid at such an uncertain time. It’s a small act that can restore a bit of normalcy in the midst of chaos.
Paul and Rhonda invite everyone to join hands in this effort. “We can’t do it alone,” they emphasize, urging those who can contribute to consider making a donation. The funds raised will go directly towards the costs associated with transporting the shower trailer, equipment, and supplies needed for this vital mission.
How You Can Help
If this mission resonates with you, there are easy ways to lend your support. Donations can be made through the ShowerUp website, where visitors can click on the “DONATE” button. Additionally, for a quick contribution, folks can send funds via Venmo at @showerup. Every little bit counts and will directly influence the lives of those affected by the disaster.
Join the Movement
As Hurricane survivors prepare for the impact, fellow community members are urged to consider how they can help as well. Whether through volunteering, donations, or simply spreading the word, everyone can play a part in providing relief.
ShowerUp has proven that with a little bit of commitment and countless acts of kindness, we can all come together to help those in need. As this Nashville nonprofit heads to Asheville, the call is loud and clear: Together, we can make a difference.
