Australian Capital Territory’s (ACT) Chief Minister Andrew Barr MLA today launched Canberra’s first Orange Sky Laundry Van.
The service is the brainchild and passion of 2016 Young Australians of the Year Nic Marchesi and Lucas Patchett.
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 Minister Barr expressed his delight that they had 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.”
The Minister commended Nic and Lucas for being ‘such amazing role models for our young people’ and thanked the volunteers, sponsors and supporters of Orange Sky Laundry.
