The story of Laundry Love began with T-Bone (Eric), a houseless gentleman living in Ventura Calif. In one particular conversation, a question was asked of him: “T-Bone, how can we come alongside your life in a way that would matter to you?” His response was honest and practical. “If I had clean clothes I think people would treat me like a human being.”
Every single Laundry Love effort, or Laundry Love spin off and/or partnership around the U.S. is attached to this man. His desire for worth and welcome is found in us all.
We all yearn to be treated as human beings. We never thought that this simple conversation 14 years ago would spark an idea that continues to influence and care for thousands of people every month. The creative and collective energy used to sustain, expand and share Laundry Love with you reminds us that every human being has tremendous worth, value and possibility.
Welcome to Laundry Love. To date, over 1,000,000 loads of laundry, over 750,000 people cared for.
Our Movement
Our Laundry Love was born over the course of a couple years of prayer and discernment and asking “wondering” questions by clergy. In the summer of 2017, volunteers led the way to the launch of our first Laundry Love event in October 2017.
Since then, we have been helping our neighbors in need at the Clothesline Laundromat in San Mateo. In partnership with Samaritan House, we offer this ministry on the second Tuesday of each month from 6:00 – 9:00 pm. Our partner Home & Hope provides dinner for everyone in the program. We split the time into two shifts. It is a rewarding experience for everyone involved.
To support the Laundry Love ministry, we have a Noisy Bucket Collection at both services on the first Sunday of each month. All Laundry Love donations are passed through to provide detergent and other cleaning supplies and change to feed the washing and drying machines.
We are always looking for more volunteers. Please contact the church office if you would like to learn more or join a shift to help!
