If you saw this van driving along the road or parked alongside a building, would you give it much notice? That’s actually part of the plan and beauty of this nondescript vehicle – not to draw attention. It’s the Mobile Shower Unit serving the homeless in Lancaster County, SC. Designer and driver, Kevin Lilly, can take the van wherever it’s needed.
Most of us probably take for granted the privacy, warm-to-hot water, and the feelings of relaxation, rejuvenation, or just plain cleanliness our showers afford. For the men and woman living under bridges, in the woods, or in abandoned buildings, this Mobile Shower Unit offers all that, and in some cases the first step out of those conditions. It takes little imagination to understand how a refreshing shower, clean hair and a clean shave can boost one’s confidence and chances for a job interview. For some of these men and women it’s already happened.
Mobile Shower Unit
And yet such a simple thing. A shower. The van carries a 50 gallon drum of clean water and a water heater that allows for a 5 minute hot shower. The stall is small, but big enough and, like the rest of the van’s interior – spotless. Through donations, wash cloths, towels, soap, shampoo and other items are provided. The men and women may keep them after their shower. If they choose not to, Kevin takes the laundry home to wash and use again.
Such a simple thing, yet not so simple when helping to restore and honor an individual’s dignity. And of course there’s more to the story. During the rest of National Hunger and Awareness Week, I’ll open the doors to the van and the windows into Kevin’s ministry to Lancaster’s homeless. I invite you to peek through the window with me.
To contact Kevin Lilly mobileshower16@gmail.com
A Writer's Window 
Kim, Keven does an incredible service for so many people. A little thing like a shower is something we take so much for granted. Thanks for sharing Kevin’s story with the world. I was thinking of how to do it, but you beat me to it and did a better job. ☺☺✨✨
Hi Annette, thank you! I’m not sure I did a better job, but the important thing is the word is getting out about Kevin’s work. I have two more posts almost ready to go. I hope, if nothing else, they will open eyes. It takes so little to make such a big difference.
Thank you again! 🙂
~Kim
(Okay, it should be “Kevin.” The coffee hasn’t made it to my fingers yet.
OMGoodness – what a marvelous idea, and Kevin put it into action after the thought – WOW! So impressive. God Bless you, Kevin. And you too, Kim, for sharing Kevin’s ministry. Looking forward to – the peek through the window!!!! xoxo
Thank you Claire. The van really is amazing. Kevin has thought of everything, and most of everything has been donated. I hope my posts make people more aware of the concerns about the homeless, and help with donations. Posts yet on Thursday and Friday!
Love ya!
~Kim