By Aaron Cordy
WHEN times are tough, offering a little bit of dignity can go a long way in letting people know that they are not alone, they are not lost to the community. Orange Sky has been offering that dignity to local people through its free laundry pod at Family Haven in Mooroopna, which celebrated its first birthday on Monday, October 20.
The initiative, which is run with the help of the Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project, St Albans Parish and an incredible team of 15 volunteers, has seen more than 562 loads of washing cleaned for those in need. It is a need that is growing throughout the country according to Orange Sky Regional Coordinator, Emma Anderson.
“Last year, we were able to start at three different regional towns within Victoria. Shepparton, Mooroopna, the need is here. The demand is here,” Emma said. “In the last year, we’ve probably seen about a 16 per cent increase in demand, just in general, over all of our services around the country. So, all walks of life, not just people experiencing homelessness.”
Retiree Chris Perry is a volunteer who does Mondays at the laundry pod and loves volunteering at the pod. She is quick to have a laugh and a joke and is adamant it is not work she is doing.
“It’s absolutely amazing volunteer work. I’ve done a lot of voluntary work. I’ve done op-shops. I’ve done the Shepparton hospital in the emergency department for three and a half years,” said Chris.
“And working here, I keep saying working, but believe me, it’s not working. I put the washing on then we sit down. We put the washing in the dryer, we sit down. It’s not working. It’s so enjoyable Orange Sky are just absolutely supportive and amazing people.”
Executive Officer of Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project Amy Robinson praised the community for its support of the laundry pod.
“I really want to acknowledge Orange Sky’s contribution to our community and the St Albans Anglican Church in Mooroopna here for hosting us. It’s incredible that there’s been a massive 562 washes throughout this facility in only 12 months,” said Amy.
“Lighthouse is really, really proud to be part of the solution in partnering with Orange Sky. Massive shout out to the amazing Orange Sky volunteers who turn up rain, hail or shine to provide the service and also provide a smile and some beautiful conversations to support people with care and empathy in our community that are doing it a bit tough. I’d also like to acknowledge Gouge Linen and Garment Company here, in Mooroopna. They provide financial contribution to ensure that the utilities cost is covered to keep this service running in our community.”
