The One Humanity Shower Bus was officially launched in June 2017, and is 100 per cent funded by donations.

The idea came from an experience Constantine Osuchukwu had housing a friend who was sleeping rough, following her husband’s death. 

He said the idea may not have seen the light of day without the region’s continuing generosity. 

“We hear so many bad stories, but there has been so much compassion for those in need, we’re really grateful to the Ballarat community,” Mr Osuchukwu said. 

“The Courier has told the story in a way that connected, and we’ve had a fantastic response as a result.

“We have 25 volunteers now, the bus was donated by Little’s Bus Service, and people have shared their time, expertise and resources to make it a reality. 

“Having a shower on its own is quite simple.

“But it provides an opportunity for them to meet other people, have a conversation and be linked up with relevant services,” he said. 

Wednesday is Community Journalism Day, where we celebrate the stories which captured Ballarat’s imagination. Many initiatives would not have come to fruition without your support.

The One Humanity Shower Bus is stationed at White Flat Oval on Fridays and Sundays between 6pm and 8pm.  

It took six months and $10,000 to transform the bus into a showering facility. 

Mr Osuchukwu said the plan is to offer laundry services and pet minding for people sleeping rough in the next few months. 

“We really need washing machines and dryers now that we’re up and running,” Mr Osuchukwu said. 

“People in need want to go for jobs and sit interviews, and how can you present yourself if you’re not clean and neatly dressed? 

“It will be a further opportunity for dignity and hope in Ballarat,” he said.

One Humanity estimates there is 70 people sleeping rough in Ballarat each night. 

The One Humanity Shower Bus on Facebook