Cash- (and sin-)free laundry

THE Pope Francis Laundrette opened its doors this week, allowing the poor and homeless to wash their clothes and bedding for free, the Vatican announced.

The laundry service, in Rome’s Trastevere tourist district, is run by volunteers and offers six washing machines plus dryers and irons.

There are plans to provide showers, a hairdresser, a clinic and a distribution point for basic goods, the Office of Papal Charities said.

According to a statement from the Vatican, Pope Francis wanted to offer a “concrete” example of the papal jubilee Year of Mercy. —