I love the story of Orange Sky Laundry, a free mobile laundry service, washing and drying the clothes of our homeless throughout Australia. What started off as one old beaten up van in Brisbane has now grown to 15 services throughout Australia, also offering shower vans and and a friendly chat.
Founders Lucas Patchett and Nic Marchesi started OSL in 2014, wondering whether their idea was actually a bit crazy. Fast forward to 2016 and they were awarded Young Australian of the Year for their venture which has brought dignity and friendship to thousands of people in need all over Australia.
Shura and I caught up with Lucas while he was in Melbourne recently and I have to say he is an amazing guy. With almost 2,000 volunteers working for OSL, he and Nic have built an awesome team who bring so much support, care and friendship to the homeless. And those volunteers feel they get so much back from helping out.
It was such a good feeling to be a part of the OSL operation, and there was plenty of fun to be had while we were there – even a few tap dancing lessons from the fabulous Jana Thompson! What else would you do while you’re waiting for your clothes to dry?
Orange Sky Laundry is a truly remarkable and heart warming story, if you ever get the chance, I encourage you to support them in any way you can.
Thanks Lucas and Nic, you make Australia proud!
