United Way of Central Kansas is hosting Laundry Love this Saturday, Feb. 18, at Discount Laundry.

The story of Laundry Love began with T-Bone, a 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 meaningful way?” His response was honest and practical. “If I had clean clothes, people would treat me like a human being.”

The mission of Laundry Love is to wash the clothes and bedding of low/no income families and individuals. Laundry Love exists to help prevent physical and emotional strain that poor health and hygiene places on the under-resourced in our community.

United Way of Central Kansas brought this program to Great Bend in August and so far has helped more than 125 families and provided over 575 loads of laundry, according to Charell Owings, UWCK executive director.

“This program has been eye opening for those of us who work the event each month and we have built relationships with the individuals and families we see,” she said. “Fellow non-profits have attended such as Oxford House, Family Crisis Center, Kansas Children’s Service League, and Core Community. This has proven to be a great way to connect with those in need. We welcome other non-profits to join us any month or we are happy to put out brochures to have on hand.”  

Funds for up to five loads of laundry per family as well as all supplies needed are provided this month by Freedom Claims Management Inc. Come down to Discount Laundry, 924 Jefferson St., this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (last load in at 1:30 p.m.). To learn more about the program visit www.laundrylove.org or contact United Way of Central Kansas at 620-792-2403.