CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Summer’s a time to take on special projects, and that includes our local nonprofits.

The Free Store in Corpus Christi is looking to do just that – but they’re going to need some help from the community to git ‘er done.

The nonprofit recently took over some unused shower facilities at the Corpus Christi Community Center with the hopes of turning them into a free place for folks in need to take a shower. The facility would be called Ruthie’s, and would also include services like laundry, bike repair, food and hygiene supplies and dog kenneling.

But even with a location and goal secured, there’s still a lot of work to be done to make them usable.

Currently, the facility is in need of assistance with plumbing, electrical work and manual labor. While there are plenty of large corporations that could take these challenges on, The Free Store would prefer to give local and small business owners first crack at the job.

“This is a space for the community, by the community,” said Marilena Garza, founder and CEO of the Free Store. “We wanna hear from the community and deeply involve private citizens, local businesses, to be a part of this historic change that could be one of the first in the state.”

Skilled tradespeople and able-bodied volunteers are welcome to call Garza at (361)319-0933 to give quotes and arrange volunteer times. The wider public is also welcome to donate to renovation efforts by texting “RUTHIES” to 53555.

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