The public bathroom operated by the Pomozi.ba Association in Sarajevo was used by 23 people in social need last month, primarily beneficiaries of the “Restoran dobre volje” (Goodwill Restaurant). The facility was most commonly used for laundry and showering, while users also received clothing, since their own garments were worn out and in need of replacement.
Most beneficiaries of the Goodwill Restaurant in Sarajevo live in extremely difficult conditions and often lack the financial means to cover even basic necessities. At the Pomozi.ba public bathroom, they can use washing and drying machines free of charge. Many do not own such appliances themselves, which also helps them save on electricity and water costs.
“The bathroom is primarily intended for users of our Goodwill Restaurant, but it is open to everyone in need. We invite all people in social need to use this free service at Mula MustafeBašeskije 9, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.,” representatives of Pomozi.ba said, adding that hygiene products are also available to users.
The Pomozi.ba Association launched this project in 2023 with the support of friends and partners. In addition to providing people in social need with access to clean clothing and water, the project aims to restore a sense of dignity and offer care and attention to those who are often overlooked.
“During the winter period, we notice increased interest in laundry and drying services. This is largely due to the cold weather, as many of our users are elderly or chronically ill,” Pomozi.ba told FENA. They added that the number of users remains similar during the summer months, although showering services are then used more frequently, alongside other services offered by the facility.
In addition to the public bathroom, the Pomozi.ba Association provides a wide range of other services to people in social need. Through the “Monthly Packages” project, the organizationsupplies basic necessities to around 250 families and individuals across Bosnia and Herzegovina. As part of the “Meal for Everyone” project, warm meals are regularly distributed to approximately 1,000 elderly beneficiaries, for whom this is often the only proper meal of the day. Pomozi.ba also offers additional assistance based on individual needs, including occasional food packages, the purchase of household appliances, medication supplies, and the payment of utility bills, helping to ease everyday life for those most in need.
“The demand for these services is high and continuous, which confirms the importance of social solidarity and the role of organisations like ours,” representatives of Pomozi.ba emphasised, N1 writes.
