The Source in Vero Beach, under the leadership of Executive Director Anthony Zorbaugh, along with local community leaders, supporters and donors, officially opened the doors to the “new” Palm Bay Dignity Bus, now open every night to 16 needy people living on the streets of Palm Bay in need of a good night’s sleep. The Palm Bay Dignity Bus is a partnership, The Source, The City of Palm Bay and St. Vincent de Paul of St. Joseph’s Parish in Palm Bay.
“It’s been a long ride getting here,” states Zorbaugh, “but our hearts and hard work led us to this point, and now we are sharing this finished product with those that need it the most.”
The second of its kind (the first is in Indian River County), this 40 foot overnight emergency shelter on wheels, was officially launched to the public on May 24 as officials from The City of Palm Bay, Greater Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce and other local dignitaries, as well as friends and supporters of the project, cut the ribbon and made prayers of health and good wishes. Attendees also heard moving speeches and enjoyed complimentary refreshments from The Source’s Dignity Food Truck, as well as a tour of the Dignity Bus.
Palm Bay Dignity Bus is distinct and unique with a custom-made interior and exterior, providing 16 secure, climate-controlled, individual sleep pods with a privacy curtain, a lockable door, a restroom, under-bus storage, pet pods for companion animals, an onboard overnight security person, a monitored CCTV surveillance and an air-filtration system. One Dignity Bus provides up to 5,840 safe sleeps per year. Guests are asked to adhere to a few important guidelines in order to maintain the safety, security, and comfort of everyone. The Bus is open for sign in up to 9 p.m. daily on a first-come-first-served basis. A fee of $2.00 per night is charged in order to make passengers committed and responsible.
“Kenny Johnson, Vice-Deputy Mayor of the City of Palm Bay states, “I am excited to have The Source serve our community, especially for those in need of shelter. They can be comforted knowing that they have a safe haven with the Palm Bay Dignity Bus. God Bless The Source and all who have brought Dignity Bus into fruition.”
Bruce Brosnahan, President of St. Vincent de Paul of St. Joseph’s Parish feels “As a strategic partner of the Palm Bay Dignity Bus we register, take care of, and feed the homeless people waiting for their good night’s rest. Our partnership with the Source has been rewarding and our people really enjoy the interactions. “
Mayor of Palm Bay, Florida Rob Medina
For more information on The Source and The Palm Bay Dignity Bus or how to make donations towards the yearly expenses needed to operate the Bus, call Anthony Zorbaugh at 772-564-0202, email tony.zorbaugh@iamthesource.org or visit www.iamthesource.org. For more information on how to utilize the Bus while in operation or to make donations for the Bus riders and their meals, contact Bruce Brosnahan, President of the St. Vincent de Paul of St. Joseph’s Parish at 321-768-7882.
For more information about Paris Productions for The Source in Vero Beach please contact Beverly S. Paris/Martin L. Paris, 772-234-4412 parisproductionsvero@gmail.com