Van lightens load for Geelong battlers
GEELONG’S vulnerable and in need will have access to a laundry van that provides free washing and drying services, thanks to Orange Sky Australia.
The van, affectionately dubbed Bluey, was secured by the fundraising efforts of Geelong Grammar School and the Muir family, founders of the Good Guys appliance retail chain. It is the 25th vehicle in Orange Sky’s national fleet.
Geelong Grammar School student Archie Whitford said he and his classmates felt there was a need for the service in the community.
“We chose Orange Sky because we saw the amazing work they were doing across the country, not only helping provide for vulnerable people but also giving them someone to talk to,” he said.
Orange Sky co-founder Lucas Patchett said he was excited to expand further across the state, with Geelong the first regional Victorian city to receive the service.
“Since Orange Sky kicked off in October 2014, we have been continually blown away by the support we’ve received and how well the vans have been integrated into a range of communities,” he said.
“It has been a community effort to bring Bluey to Geelong and we can’t wait to see the impact of the service across the region.”
Mr Patchett said it was not always the laundry service that provided the greatest relief for members of the community doing it tough, but the opportunity for genuine, nonjudgmental conversation.
“Our six orange chairs are the most important part of our service. It’s where our friends who attend our shifts have the opportunity to sit and build relationships with volunteers through genuine and nonjudgmental conversations,’’ he said.
Orange Sky is estimated to wash close to 6000kg of laundry each week.
Recent data from the 2016 census shows there are 116,000 people experiencing homelessness in Australia, an increase of 4.6 per cent over the last five years.
To donate or volunteer, please visit www.orangesky.org.au.