WHITTLESEA Community House has lended a helping hand to residents devastated by the Longwood bushfires by facilitating washing machines to use free of charge.
Orange Sky Australia is a non-profit charity that positively connects people experiencing homelessness or hardship by providing a free laundry service and a welcoming space for those experiencing displacement or loneliness. Its bright orange bus is fitted out with two commercial sized washing machines and driers and washing detergent is included at no cost to provide an essential service to those in need.
The Orange Sky bus has awning and chairs which can transform the area into a welcoming space for all ages to pull up a chair and have a chat with other users or its caring volunteers.
Its bright orange bus is fitted out with two commercial sized washing machines and driers and washing detergent is included at no cost to provide an essential service to those in need.
The first visit, on Friday, January 16, was an opportunity for local people to become familiar with the new service at the 92A Church Street in Whittlesea.
Part-time coordinator Ursula Jenkins said: “[The Longwood fires] seem to be stirring up a lot of memories about the Black Saturday fires. We have arranged to have Orange Sky come weekly”.
Thanks to Second Chance Animal Rescue, Whittlesea Community House is able to provide residents with emergency food relief for dogs and cats each Monday to Friday between 10am and 3pm. Phone ahead on 9716 3361 to let staff know if you are dropping in for assistance.
The Community House helps people change the pattern of their lives through learning and community connection and the 2026 program features the return of the Big Blokes Brunch (BBB) each Tuesday at 11.30am, commencing on January 20.
“It’s a three-course meal for everyone (you have to be male). We have a ladies lunch also, it resumes in February,” Ms Jenkins said.
“It’s important to bridge the gap socially and emotionally in a non-judgemental space and for men to get together to talk about their favourite car collection, or AFL team … or whatever.”
Bookings for the BBB are required for catering purposes.
