The Heart of Humanity

Meeting People Where They Are with What You Have

When I started Humanity Showers, I didn’t have a plan. There was no strategy deck, no funding, and no idea where it would go. It just started with some conversations. I was spending time with people on the streets and kept hearing the same thing: “I just want to feel clean. I just want to feel seen.”

It was simple. Human. We all want to feel like we matter. But when you’re living on the street, and there’s nowhere to wash up, it takes a toll—not just physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Back then, all I really had was time, so I used it. I walked the alleys and sidewalks of San Diego and just listened. People opened up. I heard stories of struggle, loss, and survival—but I also heard hope—hope for a fresh start, hope that someone might look them in the eyes and actually see them.

That stuck with me. I couldn’t shake it. I knew I couldn’t keep hearing those stories and not do something.

At first, I didn’t have much—just some warm water in Jerry cans, wet wipes, and a few towels. We’d help people wash their hands, feet, hair. That was it. But even that small act meant something. We’d find quiet corners where folks could clean up without feeling exposed. It wasn’t ideal or efficient, but when you saw the look on someone’s face after they washed off the dirt and grime—it was worth every bit of the awkward setup.

I started to understand that “meeting people where they are” isn’t just about physically going to them. It’s about showing up with whatever you’ve got and doing what you can, even when it feels like it’s not enough.

Eventually, we raised enough to buy our first two-stall shower trailer. I’ll never forget towing it to our first location. It felt like something real was happening. It wasn’t just a shower—it was dignity restored. We didn’t overcomplicate it. Soap, warm water, and a clean towel. That was it—just being there and showing up with something that helped.

Since then, Humanity Showers has grown. We’ve got multiple trailers running in different cities now, serving hundreds of people every week. But at the core, it’s still the same: meet people where they are, use what you have, and don’t overthink it.

Just like those first showers that gave people a sense of dignity and hope, a clean, warm blanket can make all the difference to someone sleeping on the street. Partnering with Sackcloth & Ashes means more than just giving blankets; it means standing with a community committed to practical acts of kindness that add to real change. We’re honored to be part of that vision, reminding people that even the smallest gesture can restore hope and humanity.

A lot of people wait until they feel ready or like they have it all figured out before they help. But the truth is, you don’t need much.

You just have to show up and be willing.

If there’s one thing I hope you take away from our story, it’s this:

You don’t need a perfect plan to make a difference.

Just start with what you’ve got, right where you are.

Written by Jordan Verdin, Founder of Humanity Showers

View blog post on Sackcloth & Ashes Substack.