Orange Sky's Free School Laundry Program Expands Across Australia to Support Students in Need
Homelessness service provider Orange Sky has unveiled an Australia-first initiative that will provide free laundry services in schools nationwide, with six Western Australian schools already in discussions to be among the first participants. The innovative program aims to address concerns about students disengaging from education due to a lack of clean clothing and uniforms.
How the Program Works and What Schools Need to Qualify
Orange Sky's new school laundry program offers schools across Australia the opportunity to partner with the organization to install washing machines, dryers, and supplies on campus. Students can discreetly access these facilities free of charge, removing a significant barrier to regular school attendance.
School laundry program lead Katie Lavidis explained that Orange Sky assesses applications and fully funds the installation once a school is accepted. "We look to three key areas, and it's more of a readiness assessment just to check that the program will work in the school," she told PerthNow.
The assessment criteria include:
- Identification of need within the school community
- Support from staff and leadership capacity
- Availability of suitable space for installation
"Orange Sky funds the machines, delivery, installation of machines and supplies, and with that installation of machines there is funding for reasonable changes to the space," Ms Lavidis confirmed.
Addressing Youth Homelessness and Hardship Through Practical Support
The program development began two years ago in response to concerning rates of homelessness, hardship, and poverty among young people. "We had it on our radar to try and look at services for young people, then we got an email from a school in Victoria saying... 'we have students presenting with washing needs and we don't have a way to help them'," Ms Lavidis recalled.
Following successful pilot programs in two schools over 18 months (one in Victoria and one in Queensland), Orange Sky has now onboarded four additional schools and installed laundry facilities. The organization is currently in discussions with six Western Australian schools, including three primary schools and three high schools, with interest growing rapidly.
"It's open to any type of school - public schools, independent schools, flexi-schools. We're getting interest from all types of schools," Ms Lavidis emphasized.
Measurable Benefits and Positive Outcomes for Students
Research conducted by Economic Evaluation Australia in 2022 revealed significant impacts of hygiene-related issues on student wellbeing and academic performance. The study found that students experiencing hygiene poverty miss an average of 13.84 more school days per year and demonstrate reduced engagement in both recreational and classroom activities.
Ms Lavidis noted the program's positive effects: "Our teachers are seeing improved confidence, students are learning life skills, improved attendance, and they're also seeing more connection for both the students and, where the families are allowed to come in, the families as well."
Key benefits observed include:
- Increased student confidence and self-esteem
- Development of practical life skills
- Improved school attendance rates
- Enhanced family-school connections
- Early identification of families needing additional support
Ongoing Support and Future Expansion Plans
Orange Sky develops comprehensive ongoing relationships with participating schools, providing onboarding plans, training for machine use and cleaning, maintenance support, and continuous supplies. Schools manage the day-to-day operation while ensuring student access to the facilities.
"Every school has been amazing. I'm always in awe of the support, care and the length every staff member goes to to support their students," Ms Lavidis commented.
The organization acknowledges current challenges, particularly regarding space availability in some schools, but remains committed to expanding the program's reach. "I would love in future to have an opportunity to help those schools as well," she added.
The most immediate priority is raising awareness about the initiative among Australian schools. "Right now, we're just looking for people to spread the word and let schools who might need our support know," Ms Lavidis stated.
"We know that teachers are strapped for time and there is a lot of pressure on schools, and the idea of the program is to make it as simple as possible for teachers. Orange Sky does the heavy lifting, and lets teachers focus on what they do best, which is supporting students."
Schools interested in applying for the program can find more information and submit applications through the Orange Sky website.
