Orange Sky Laundry to serve Canberra’s homeless


Released 25/07/2017

I had the pleasure of launching Canberra’s first Orange Sky Laundry Van, the brainchild and passion of 2016 Young Australians of the Year Nic Marchesi and Lucas Patchett today.

Nic and Lucas were recognised for their inspirational work in starting the mobile laundry service in August 2014 which initially served people experiencing homelessness in Brisbane’s city parks.  Nic and Lucas washed their clothes and offered non judgemental conversation.

These young men are using their year as Young Australians of the Year to roll out the Orange Sky Laundry in cities across the country and I am delighted they have decided to launch a van in Canberra.

I am also proud to say they have already had more than 50 local volunteers sign up, keen to help the people who find themselves living on Canberra’s streets.

This will add to the network of 47 specialist homelessness services in the ACT to help those in our community who are most in need. I am sure the Orange Sky Laundry van will be welcomed by workers in the sector and those they serve.

I commend Nic and Lucas for their work and for being such amazing role models for our young people. I would also like to add my thanks to the volunteers, sponsors and supporters of Orange Sky Laundry.

- Statement ends -

Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases


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