Realizing not enough is being done to meet homeless peoples’ hygienic needs, these two friends put an ingenious idea to work and are now helping many people in Australia.
Sometimes the best thing you can do to help others is to assist them with the little things, which – believe it or not – make a great deal of difference.
Imagine being homeless and trying to get back on your feet – yet feeling extremely self-conscious of the state of your clothes when seeking out new opportunities. The two definitely don’t mix, which is why two good-Samaritan friends created a brilliant way to help the homeless re-gain confidence and also feel more optimistic about their situation. They did this by turning their van into a mobile laundromat to give those without an opportunity to wash their clothes safely.
The two creators of the Orange Sky Laundry project, Lucas Patchett and Nicholas Marchesi, began with an old van and a generator. With the support of donations, they were able to secure two washing machines and driers, and now their van can process 20 kg of laundry an hour.
Launched in July, the project is now in its trial period, during which the van will operate 5 days per week in Brisbane, Australia. If all goes well, the organization will likely spread across Australia.
Two 20-year-old friends, Lucas Patchett and Nicholas Marchesi, noticed that not enough was being done to help the homeless or meet their hygienic needs. 
So they created Australia’s FIRST mobile laundry unit for the homeless. Now they spend 5 days a week helping others regain a bit more self confidence and live more comfortably by washing their clothes. 
[Clean clothes are] “a privilege that so many of us take for granted. This is the first time Mich has been able to wash his clothes and blankets. Born in Brisbane and living on the streets, Mick can’t afford to wash his clothes or transport them. Thanks for your continued support of our program.” 
And as shared on the Orange Sky Laundry website, “Meet Ricky. He wants to thank you all for your donations and support. He sleeps rough on the street with his dad and today they were able to wash all their clothes.” 
Lucas Pratchett poses in front of one of the vans. 
This organization runs off the generosity of others around the globe. You can help by donating online – $6 will cover the cost of a cycle of washing for one person. “Have a look, we really appreciate it along with your continued support.” 
Source: HuffingtonPost
Written by Amanda Froelich of www.trueactivist.com
