Orange Sky Laundromats
A Fresh Take on Positively Connecting Communities
When most people think of Orange Sky, they picture our bright orange vans parked on street corners. They see washing machines humming, conversations flowing, and volunteers sharing smiles. In 2021, we gave that same idea new life through our Laundromat service model. This innovation has helped us reach more people, operate more efficiently, and strengthen our mission to positively connect communities through free laundry and genuine conversation.
How it works
Our Laundromat model is simple but powerful, and made possible by some strong partnerships. By installing washing machines and dryers inside existing laundromats or using existing laundry machines, we can reach more people who need access to laundry and meaningful connection.
Each partnership is built on trust and shared values making sure our service complements, rather than duplicates, existing support. Partners support Orange Sky’s mission by allowing our same trusted service to regularly run from their location.
Here’s how it comes together:
We start by reaching out to laundromats or community spaces that already serve people experiencing hardship.
Together, we design a model that works for the community. We decide together which model is the right fit: installing Orange Sky-owned washers and dryers, or using existing machines. Both have different features and benefits, but provide the same outcome of supporting those in need.
Together we negotiate a time to invite friends & run a shift from inside the laundromat.
Our partners aren’t out of pocket, we recruit volunteers and cover the cost of every wash and dry.
We begin with a trial shift, then expand services as demand increases.
With the one set up, we place our own washing machines and dryers inside partner organisations. With the other set up, we use partners’ existing laundry facilities.
- Secure location at an aligned local service provider & accessible to those who will use
- Correct Dimensions, but flexible depending on the space available at our service provider partner
- Access to water, waste drainage, 10amp & 20amp power (supplied by service partner, OS to assist with conversion to 20amp power if required)
- Accessible to volunteers on shift (if required)
We’ve recently launched a new laundromat in the Whitsundays, and another in Hervey Bay.
Each new partnership is another step toward our mission to positively connect communities one wash, one conversation and one moment of care at a time. Because whether it’s in a van, a pod or an indoor laundromat, the power of Orange Sky has always been about more than clean clothes, it’s about connection.
