ORANGE SKY, a not-for-profit organisation supporting people experiencing homelessness or hardship, is launching a new laundry service in Wonthaggi.
The service will offer more than just clean clothes.
Orange Sky is calling on locals across the Bass Coast to get involved by helping support an increasing number of people facing tough times with a friendly chat and connection.
“We’re here for anyone feeling lonely or disconnected, and we aim to create a space that’s supportive and inclusive,” said Lisa Sprlyan, senior operations specialist at Orange Sky Australia.
The organisation is best known for its bright orange laundry and shower vans which operate across parks and alongside service partners throughout the country.
In Wonthaggi, Orange Sky will introduce one of its innovative laundry pods, a static, standalone structure equipped with environmentally friendly Waru Dryers.
A laundry pod includes two washing machines, two dryers, and six iconic orange chairs.
“It’s a place where volunteers and community members can sit together and share a moment of connection.
“People from all walks of life can find themselves doing it tough,” said Ms Sprlyan.
“It could be anyone in the community who has fallen on hard times.
“We’re seeing more and more people impacted due to the current economic situation.”
The new Wonthaggi service has been made possible through local partnerships with Inverloch and Wonthaggi Rotary, the Salvation Army in Wonthaggi, Wonthaggi Neighbourhood Centre, and Bass Coast Community Foundation.
Drouin Rotary is also lending support as one of nine clubs in the Strzelecki Rotary Community Group committed to providing assistance to homelessness services in the region.
The Orange Sky laundry pod will be located at the Salvation Army at 149 McKenzie Street, Wonthaggi, and will operate every Monday and Thursday from 10am to 12 midday, starting in August.
If you enjoy a good chat, have a positive attitude, and want to make a difference in your community, head to orangesky.org.au/volunteer to sign up.
