In the autumn of 2023, Lighthouse Ministries opened a new shower facility on the second floor of their ministry location at 190 Spruce Street in Lexington. It was immediately a great addition to Lexington since there was no place for people to take a shower who were not in a shelter or home. They offer much more than showers. Go to Clean Start to see exactly all that is included. 

My wife and I were volunteers helping sort clothing, clean after each shower, and get things started. I have helped serve and bring a gospel message at Dining with Dignity for over ten years and enjoy it so much, but this was different. I was immediately amazed at how many women there were and the change in their attitudes as they emerged after receiving a hot shower, toiletries, a change of clothes (if requested), and shoes. It had made their day.

But there was a problem. With receiving the new clothes, they had to throw their old clothing away. I knew that could be resolved. After brainstorming with the people at Lighthouse and my family I began to look for a place where they could take their dirty clothing and get them laundered. 

I only needed to go to one laundry facility. North Lime Laundry, just a block from Loudan Avenue in Lexington was the perfect location and the perfect people. The owners had just opened the laundry and apartments a few years ago with the goal of helping the people who live in that neighborhood. They caught our vision and immediately helped. 

Social workers at Lighthouse and other missions in Lexington give a voucher to those who qualify. North Lime Laundry gives friendly service for a 40 lb. wash and dry. After a year we are right at 500 vouchers and growing fast. That was our start. We are small. Family managed and shouting the message with our actions.

You Are Not Alone. 

We believe that we all need dignity and community and feel so grateful to be able to do that in our cities.   

Don Vanzant, Director