Bernalillo County considers mobile restrooms, showers for homeless

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – Bernalillo County is looking into a way to provide showers, restrooms, and laundry facilities to the homeless population. Bernalillo County Commissioner Steven Michael Quezada wants to propose the county manage a mobile unit that would provide showers, laundry facilities, and restrooms in areas with large homeless populations. The idea is already in practice in Santa Fe by the Interfaith Community Shelter.

James Butler started the program in March and said it not only helps people in the short term but having access to basic hygiene makes it easier to deal with everyday life. “There is just something about feeling human that is right and everybody should be able to feel it,” said Butler.

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The Santa Fe mobile unit partners with local groups like Healthcare for the Homeless and the Salvation Army to provide clothing and more services.

Bernalillo County commissioners brought up concerns about ensuring proper water sources, enough volunteers, and overall logistics. The county said making this a reality is still a ways off.

The Interfaith Community Shelter in Santa Fe recently got funding to expand its mobile unit from two to three days a week.

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