This month, the Johnson Street Shelter unveiled our newest addition: two modular bathroom buildings. After months of planning and hard work, we are thrilled that our guests can finally use these much-needed facilities!
The portable toilets we previously relied on were far from ideal. They lacked the sanitation standards we strive to provide and hindered our mission of help and hope. Imagine getting ready for work in a porta-potty—it’s a demoralizing experience for individuals trying to improve their life.
Given our temporary residence at the Johnson Street building, investing in permanent bathroom facilities wasn’t feasible. Instead, we collaborated with the City of Missoula and Hone Architects + Builders to bring a visionary solution to life: modular bathrooms that can be moved to any location. This ensures that we maximize the use and benefit of these new facilities.
This project is truly a testament to the power of community. The Missoula Economic Partnership and United Way secured funds from private donors in the community, while the Missoula Redevelopment Agency provided additional financial support. Essential materials and expertise came from Morrison Maierle Engineering, Taylor Timber, and Montana Excavating. We are deeply grateful to the City of Missoula, which has prioritized the Johnson Street Shelter and partnered with us to create a dignified space for Missoula’s most vulnerable residents.
We owe a special thanks to individuals like Dave Edgell, a local contractor who generously donated his time to work on the bathrooms. His granddaughter, Montana artist Averi Iris, painted a beautiful mural on one of the buildings, adding a personal touch that brightens the space. Check out her work here: averiirisart.com
Since the bathrooms opened a few weeks ago, we’ve already noticed a positive impact on the shelter environment. The courtyard at the Johnson Street Shelter is cleaner, our guests are more comfortable, and our staff is proud of the enhanced services we can now offer. A guest even got emotional, amazed that something so nice was actually built for them. Another shared, “This is the best shower I’ve taken in years,” highlighting the profound difference these facilities make.
Access to proper sanitation is more than just a convenience; it’s a necessity for maintaining dignity and personal hygiene. For those living without homes, having a clean, private space to bathe and take care of other hygiene needs is crucial. It not only improves physical health but also boosts self-esteem and provides a sense of normalcy in challenging times.
These new bathroom structures exemplify the core beliefs of the Poverello Center: everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of housing status. By providing essential services like shelter, sanitation, and food, we are working toward a community where everyone has a safe place to call home.
We are incredibly proud of this accomplishment and grateful to everyone who made it possible. Thank you for supporting the Johnson Street Shelter and helping us create a more dignified, hopeful environment for all.