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The Story of Compassion Connection:
Dignity in Action
Compassion Connection traces its roots to a simple but powerful act in 2013, when a community member sat on a Hollywood sidewalk and struck up a heartfelt conversation with several individuals experiencing homelessness. That moment of human connection—rooted in dignity and mutual respect—sparked a movement. Soon after, Hollywood Adventist Church opened its dressing room showers to a few neighbors living on the block. Word spread. Needs grew. And from those humble beginnings, a program dedicated to honoring individual worth and restoring hope began to take shape.
In its early years, the program modeled itself after traditional day shelters. The church lobby became a welcoming space where guests could rest and sign up for showers on a first-come, first-served basis. But the process had its challenges—some guests waited all day for their turn, leaving little room to address other critical needs. The team knew there had to be a better way—one that honored people’s time and humanity.
In July 2017, the church paused operations to reimagine its approach. From that reflection came Compassion Connection, guided by a bold, values-driven philosophy: Everyone—regardless of housing status—deserves the same level of care, kindness, and ease of access as anyone else.
Rather than continuing the shelter model, the team focused on providing an exceptional personal care experience—one that would uplift and empower. Drawing inspiration from the hospitality and spa industries, Compassion Connection introduced a dignified appointment system, allowing guests to book showers online or via walk-in, phone, or text. Compassionate hospitality concierges ensured every guest was warmly welcomed and respectfully served.
The change was immediate and profound. In 2017 alone, 3,900 showers were provided.
As word of the experience spread, so did demand. By 2018, the team could no longer meet the need alone. That summer, Compassion Connection joined forces with The Shower of Hope, bringing a mobile unit to the church every Tuesday. The partnership helped break service records and allowed more guests to receive care in an environment built on kindness and respect.
In 2019, the collaboration flourished. The team provided over 5,200 showers to more than 600 unique guests. Each visit was about more than hygiene—it was a moment of dignity, encouragement, and human connection.
Then 2020 brought the COVID-19 pandemic. As gyms, shelters, and public services shuttered, thousands of low-income and unhoused individuals were left without access to basic hygiene. Yet Compassion Connection was ready. Its flexible booking system and commitment to safety allowed services to continue with only minor changes—all while upholding the highest standards of care and love. Demand surged, and appointments filled up a week in advance.
To meet the growing need, the team deepened its partnerships—with The Kohler Company, Adventist Health, World Vision, and The Shower of Hope—gaining vital supplies, staffing support, and operational guidance. Through their collective efforts, thousands of guests were served with dignity during one of the most uncertain times in recent history.
In 2023, Compassion Connection celebrated 10 years of service and the milestone of providing over 50,000 showers. That same year, a grant funded the creation of a custom-designed mobile shower trailer, allowing services to expand and better meet the growing needs of guests. The trailer was delivered in late 2024, ushering in a new chapter.
Now, with more than 60,000 showers provided, Compassion Connection continues to innovate and grow. Today, the team is partnering with Council District 13 and Homeless Health Care Los Angeles to launch the Hollywood Hub—an integrated access center that pairs high-quality personal care with intensive case management and housing navigation. The Hub allows guests to meet their day-to-day needs while receiving long-term support, all in one welcoming space.
Through every shift and milestone, Compassion Connection has remained grounded in its mission:
To uplift and empower our neighbors through care that communicates dignity, love, and hope.
We believe that every person is worthy of kindness, every life holds value, and with the right support, every journey can move toward healing, stability, and home.
