Clean Laundry and Resources
By Angie Matthiessen, Executive Director
Access to clean clothes is one of life’s most basic necessities but not everyone can afford it. It is truly a luxury for many who are really struggling in our community. It breaks my heart to think that some families must choose between buying groceries or having clean clothes.
On Saturday, November 9, United Way of Charlotte County (UWCC) participated in a wonderful event that we have had the pleasure of being part of for over five years. The Patterson Foundation and Suncoast Campaign for Grade-Level Reading in conjunction with The Laundry Project host the Pop-Up Neighbor through Laundry Events in four counties. It’s a free event and a surprise for those who show up to do their laundry at the laundromat that morning.
“Pop-Up Neighbor Through Laundry offers struggling families much more than a break on laundry costs, it provides a moment of relief, a spark of joy, and a sense of community that many may not have felt in a long time. For families constantly navigating the demands of life, simply knowing they don’t have to worry about laundry fees for a day can bring immense relief,” Beth Duda, Suncoast Campaign for Grade-Level Reading Director explains.
Imagine making the decision to spend your last few dollars on making sure your family’s clothes are clean. Maybe you don’t have a washing machine at home, or it may have been destroyed in recent hurricanes. You could be headed to the laundromat after working a late-night shift. You’re exhausted and money is tight, but your kids need clean clothing.
One woman shared that her adult sons are both suffering from health issues. The one way she wanted to help them was to offer to wash their clothes at the laundromat. Through her tears she was relieved to receive free laundry, food and many other resources for her family. A simple load of laundry turned into help that was much needed, a surprise – a basket of blessings!
Stephanie Lucy, UWCC Program Manager shares, “I love this event because it not only brings a smile to people’s faces and puts money back into their pockets, but it gives us the opportunity to hear powerful stories of struggle, resilience, and hope. One gentleman I have had the pleasure of meeting now twice, takes his wife to work every Saturday and heads to the laundromat to wash their clothes. He used to work in juvenile detention but is now working for the local school system making his interactions with kids now more positive and joy filled.”
Saturday’s turnout was our most successful one yet, serving 56 families, accomplishing a staggering 574 loads of laundry. I am always so honored to attend these events. This makes our work in the community feel more real, where even for a moment, we share our hearts and lives with our neighbors in Charlotte County.
Grateful for our fellow partners that participate, caring for and providing helpful and much needed resources to our community are Charlotte County Libraries, Department of Health Charlotte County, Lizzy the Literacy Bus, and Digital Access for All by The Patterson Foundation. In addition, there are many volunteers who provide food, read to the children and assist with the free laundry services.
For more information about the Suncoast Campaign for Grade-Level Reading and it’s initiatives in Charlotte County or volunteering for 2025 Pop-Up events, visit: unitedwayccfl.org/Basket
For more information about United Way of Charlotte County’s mission: Mobilizing the power of our community to break the cycle of poverty, please contact Angie Matthiessen, Executive Director. She can be reached at director@unitedwayccfl.org.