A rising senior at Sebastian River High School has made remarkable efforts to support individuals experiencing homelessness this summer through an oral hygiene drive that exceeded expectations.
Mason Medina, 17, typically dedicates his school community service hours to helping animals at Adopt A Grown Cat. However, he decided to assist local citizens needing essential hygiene products for this round. He aimed to collect 350 toothbrushes, 350 tubes of toothpaste, and 350 packs of dental floss.
Thanks to the support from local dental offices and the community, Mason successfully gathered 1,260 toothbrushes, 1,142 tubes of toothpaste, and 634 packs of dental floss. In addition, he received 386 bottles of mouthwash and numerous other essential supplies, such as soap, tissues, lotion, and toothbrush covers.
The SRHS IB student chose to donate all of these items to The Source, whose mission is to support and serve the community and lead individuals to a saving faith in Jesus Christ.
The Source
Founded in 1995 as a modest homeless ministry offering meals and Bible Study in a 600 sq. ft. storefront in Vero Beach, The Source has significantly expanded over the past twenty-eight years. Now located at 1015 Commerce Avenue in a 5,000 sq. ft. facility, The Source serves as a crucial community resource center, open daily.
Their comprehensive Dignity programs address the diverse needs of homeless and underprivileged individuals who seek assistance. The Source’s mission encompasses providing essential services such as restaurant-style hot meals, clothing, counseling, support groups, hygiene facilities, showers, mail and telephone access, and benefits referrals. They also actively promote family reunification, helping many individuals reconnect with their loved ones.
As pioneers of Indian River County’s first Dignity Buses, they offer emergency shelter year-round. One bus accommodates 20 individuals, and the other 16 are operational 365 nights a year. Their Dining with Dignity initiative provides hands-on culinary training and food safety education, preparing participants for employment in the hospitality sector. Graduates who pass the State of Florida’s ServSafe exam receive official certification, enhancing their career prospects.
The Source’s commitment to holistic care extends to its Dignity Smiles program, which offers free dental care through the generosity of local dentists to qualifying graduates of our Dining with Dignity program. Additionally, their Dignity Jobs program creates opportunities for dignified income, enabling our members to earn a living.
The Dignity Wellness Program aims to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues. In 2023 they were rewarded with the Impact 100 grant in the amount of $100,000 and an additional $12,000 from the Grand Harbor Community Outreach Foundation, which provides mental health counseling to The Source members and first aid training for staff and at community workshops.
The Community Works program combats homelessness through the dignity of work and the power of community. This volunteer work experience program invites people experiencing homelessness to join teams dedicated to cleaning streets, parks, and other public spaces, helping them chart a path out of homelessness.
For more information about all of the programs The Source offers, visit their website or call (772) 564-0202.
