Francis gives Rome’s poorest a clean start in life
He’s provided showers, a barber, medical care, an exclusive tour around the Sistine Chapel and front-row seats at a music concert.

Now the latest initiative by Pope Francis to help the homeless is a laundry. From Monday this week, those sleeping rough in Rome will be able to wash, dry and iron their clothes free of charge, in another  papal act of mercy towards those living on the margins.

The laundry room will be located at the San Gallicano centre in Rome’s Trastevere region, which is run by the Community of Sant’Egidio, the Catholic peace and humanitarian group. The new washroom includes six washers and dryers donated by Whirlpool, while Procter & Gamble donated washing detergent to the project. Procter & Gamble already give razors and Gillette shaving cream to the barber for the homeless, which is near St Peter’s square.