Transitional Accommodation

Our ‘People in Transitional Accommodation’ service is aimed at supporting individuals in crisis accommodation, boarding houses, and large-scale transitional housing environments, who do not have access to adequate laundry facilities. As we mature and evolve at Orange Sky, our research shows that there are more and more layers to the hidden homeless epidemic, and new demographics of people experiencing hardship who need our support. This service extends our reach beyond our usual delivery model utilising a van. Instead, we partner with a laundromat located nearby to the accommodation, and complete the washing offsite, while some of our volunteers remain behind to connect with the families and individuals at the accommodation.

The rising cost of living and rental crises have led to an unprecedented number of people in temporary housing without adequate laundry facilities across both regional and metropolitan areas of Queensland. A significant number of these people are single parents and school-aged children, who need access to clean school and work uniforms to maintain a sense of routine and normality.

Many residents currently wash large amounts of laundry within their rooms in either the bath or shower, or give up other essentials (including food, hygiene products, and school supplies) to pay for public laundry facilities. On average, we complete 20 loads of washing during each shift (2.5 hours), consisting of school uniforms, work uniforms, towels, bedding, and everything in between. This service aims to improve the mental and physical wellbeing of vulnerable members of our community, helping them maintain their dignity and positively engage with those around them.

• There are 41 unique organisations providing transitional housing services across Queensland, indicating a significant volume of people living in these situations and highlighting the widespread need for our support.
• Transitional housing facilities are spread across both regional and metropolitan areas, reflecting the broad need for these services throughout the state.
• Specific transitional housing services are set up for youth and families, addressing the increasing demand from these demographics.

Our goal for the ‘Transitional Housing’ Program is to provide isolated members of our communities with the support and connection that they need, ensuring that children are going to school with clean uniforms and have the opportunity to be just like everyone else. For parents navigating challenging circumstances, our service alleviates the stress of laundry and creates a space where they can connect with their children and fellow adults, an opportunity they may not have regularly.

For those escaping homelessness due to various causes, we provide a touchpoint of support, connection, and community that they may otherwise miss due to the stigma surrounding homelessness, mental health journeys, and other challenges.