SHWASHLOCK is an acronym for SHowers, WASHers and LOCKers, the
three things homeless individuals using Santa Monica's Public
Electronic Network, PEN, told housed users were most needed to
find work and get off the streets.
After the idea had been discussed online, a PEN Action Group was
formed and met regularly to develop the concept into a workable
solution for homeless unemployment. The word "SHWASHLOCK" was
coined by group member and local artist Bruria Finkel. Members of the PEN Action Group are shown above as they prepared
to present their plan to the Santa Monica City Council in May
of 1990.
The SHWASHLOCK facility opened in November of 1993 at 505 Olympic
Boulevard in Santa Monica. It was funded by the City and private
donations, and is administered by the Salvation Army.
For more on the implications of local online activism, see the relevant sections of the page about PEN.
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