While a warm shower might be part of the daily routine for some people, access to a shower on a daily basis remains out of the question for others.
Friday, November 29, marked two years of a critical service aimed at alleviating the challenges faced by the vulnerable.
With the help of Agnews Cobram Plumbtec, who supplied a hot water system, and Cobram Lions Club, the Cobram Community House’s free shower program opened on Monday, November 28, 2022.
“It’s very evident that those who use the shower program are very grateful for the service, and walk out feeling a lot better than when they came in,” Community House manager Christine Osborne said.
Mrs Osborne said the aim of the program is to provide a basic service and some dignity to those people who do not otherwise have access to a regular shower.
While some societal barriers remain that prevent more members of the community from accessing the free service, Mrs Osborne said the positive impact of the program is clear to see.
“If only one person comes in per session and uses the service, then it is valuable because we’ve impacted someone’s life in a positive way,” she said.
The service is run with the assistance of several volunteers, including Cobram Lions Club president Max Austin and past president Janet Austin.
Mr and Mrs Austin have supported the program since its inception, both through and outside the activities of the Lions Club.
The couple share a rotating roster with several other volunteers who assist with the running of the shower service at Killara House.
Mrs Austin said a key part of what motivated her to volunteer her time with the service was the chance to serve the community.
“It’s to help other people, where you can, when you can,” Mrs Austin said.
“This is something that’s needed,” she said.
It was a sentiment echoed by Mr Austin, who said a key part of his reason for spending his Friday mornings at the service was the opportunity to help the community.
Mrs Osborne expressed her gratitude to the program’s volunteers.
“Because we couldn’t do it without (them),” she said.
The Cobram Community House also provides a range of free bathroom toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, towels and soap.
The service runs every Friday, from 10am to noon.
To find out more about the program, contact Cobram Community House on (03) 5872 2224.