Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Orange Sky Mackay has officially unveiled its upgraded service space, offering a safe place to access free laundry services and connection. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Orange Sky homelessness support has celebrated the completion of major upgrades to its Mackay service, supported by $40,000 in grants from Mackay Regional Council and the Mackay Community Fund, at an official grand opening held on Wednesday22nd July
Part of the funding was secured by Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP for the facility and its awning, providing a sheltered space where people can stay protected from the rain and sun.
The upgrades included a new patio, giving users a clean, safe and sheltered space to sit, connect and chat while accessing Orange Sky’s free laundry service.
Orange Sky has supported the Mackay community for nine years, with volunteers completing 13,561 washes and providing 24,632 hours of connection and non-judgemental conversation since the service launched.
“It just takes a lot of their anxiety away that they know that they can come and get their washing done in a friendly and safe environment,” Mr Willcox said.
“They leave here and feel really good about themselves, and that makes me feel good. This is why I support initiatives like this, and do what I do.”
Orange Sky Co-Founder Nicholas Marchesi said demand for the service had grown over the past year.
“To now have an amazing location alongside the Girl Guides, where people can sit down, put their washing on under shelter, is really a massive step forward in us delivering our service,” he said.
For service user Brendan, the service provides practical support during a difficult period.
“Washing your clothes at a laundromat is expensive, and the fact that this exists really eases that section of my life. The people here are great,” he said.
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