In Baltinava, Latvia, a laundry house that serves as a vital resource for residents, particularly elderly and low-income individuals, will soon be shutting down. Local resident Terēzija Keiša expressed her reliance on the facility, highlighting the lack of water in her home and the community's need for such services. The laundry house is especially important for those who cannot afford washing machines or have no water supply at home, as many depend on this service for basic hygiene and cleanliness.

However, despite the high demand for laundry services, the usage numbers have plummeted in recent years. In 2024, residents utilized the laundry house 330 times, but last year that figure dropped dramatically to just 50. The local expert, Anita Daukste, pointed out that the rising costs of operating the laundry facility have made it financially unsustainable, with the local government spending thousands annually to keep it running, juxtaposed against the significantly reduced income from clients.

The impending closure raises significant concerns for the community, particularly for those who lack proper amenities at home. Without the laundry house, many residents will face increased burdens in managing their cleanliness and hygiene. The loss of this resource highlights broader issues of access to essential services in rural areas, especially for marginalized populations who rely on facilities like this to support their daily lives.