From showers to shelter.
Urban Alchemy’s journey in Oakland started with mobile hygiene stations. Over the course of three years, the organization provided clean toilets and showers to unsheltered neighbors, luxuries that too many people take for granted. In total, Urban Alchemy provided more than 10,000 showers and built strong relationships with members of the unsheltered community, as well as other nonprofits and government agencies focused on overcoming homelessness.
Those relationships helped lead to an RV-based shelter site serving 102 vehicles. That facility also provides strong wrap-around support to help guests find permanent housing, overcome mental health and substance use problems, and find jobs. Following Urban Alchemy’s philosophy of love and experience, they also provide meals on weekends and offer a wide array of events to help bring the guests together and build a strong sense of community.
