Free laundry and showers
Orange’s Sky core service is providing access to free laundry and shower facilities to whānau doing it tough.
In the 2018 Census, it was found that more than 41,000 Kiwis were experiencing homelessness. In a study by YouGov in 2021, more than one in five (21%) Kiwis have personally experienced homelessness, while 19% know someone who has. Worryingly, half (51%) of New Zealanders say they struggle to make ends meet at least once a year, with one in five (20%) struggling to make ends meet each and every week.
These aren’t just statistics. Each of these figures has a face, a story and a name.
Orange Sky services spread across six locations in Aotearoa on both the North and South Islands, and we are growing every year.
We deliver our service to communities in a variety of ways, including our mobile laundry and shower vans, mobile laundry vans, laundry pods and internal laundries placed within one of our service provider partners locations.
Regardless of the method of delivery, the same trusted service from Orange Sky remains.
Many Kiwis, including those experiencing homelessness, vulnerable groups of people and low-income whānau, struggle daily with inadequate access to essential hygiene facilities. This lack of access can lead to social isolation and feeling disconnected from their community.
At Orange Sky, we recognise the crucial role of providing essential hygiene services. Anyone is welcome to use Orange Sky services, regardless of their circumstances. By providing access to laundry and shower facilities, we are able to bridge the gaps in hygiene needs, support individual health and wellbeing, and foster a sense of belonging for people who use our services.
Free laundry and shower services provide immediate and far-reaching outcomes, impacting individuals and communities alike.
Improved health outcomes
Regular access to laundry and shower facilities helps improve hygiene and reduce the risk of health issues.
Increased opportunities for social participation
People who use Orange Sky’s services engage in kōrero with the incredible volunteers who operate our services. By providing a safe space for manaakitanga, our services help to reduce barriers and social stigmas. Whānau who use our service may feel better equipped to engage in community activities and access public spaces.
Strengthened whanaungatanga
By creating a space for genuine social interactions between volunteers and whānau who use our service, we can foster a sense of belonging and community spirit for both parties. This encourages whanaungatanga within the communities we serve.
Contributions through volunteering
Orange Sky services provide an avenue for those interested in volunteering to make a difference in their community. Volunteering and community are a core part of the culture throughout Aotearoa, as it’s a positive way to contribute to society by giving your time and skills to help others. We hope to enhance the understanding of homelessness and hardship, and help to break down the barriers and stereotypes that are often associated with people experiencing homelessness.
