Volunteers in three local churches will launch a new laundry ministry today from 4 until 7 p.m. at Soap Opera Laundry.

Jason Thrower, pastor of First United Methodist Church, said the ministry, also involves First Presbyterian Church and St. Mary’s Episcopal Church.

Thrower said. Laundry Love began with a homeless man living in California. When he was asked what someone could do to help him, he replied, “If I had clean clothes, I think people would treat me like a human being.”

In the 12 years since Laundry Love was created, it is estimated that more than 600,000 loads of laundry have been done, and more than 450,000 people have been cared for.

Thrower said it is believed the local effort will be only the second one established in Alabama.

Volunteers will be on hand today to assist with laundry, he said. Detergent and dryer sheets, as well as gift bags for children, will be available. Volunteers will facilitate washing and drying three loads of laundry for those in need.

 

The organization will rely on contributions to fund the ministry. Signs will be placed in front of Soap Opera on the days the ministry works, he said.