Program Natural Disaster Response

Natural Disaster Response How we help Orange Sky is proud to support anyone who needs our help, including those affected by natural disasters. Since 2015, we have supported those affected by floods, bushfires, severe thunderstorms and cyclones across Australia with close to 20,000 loads of laundry. But more importantly, providing those affected with a safe space to connect with their community. Our natural disaster response has been improved significantly since our first response to Cyclone Marcia in 2015. Each scenario presents new learnings to prepare us for the next, and our goal is to have purpose-built assets ready to mobilise and a dedicated volunteer team so that we can deploy services quickly, without impacting our existing shifts. Why it’s needed 70% of Australians have been impacted by natural disasters, emphasising the pressing need for services that can get on the ground quickly, to support community resilience. In a crisis, access to clean laundry is unlikely to be a high priority. But during these challenging times, many Aussies are left without access to power, and sometimes, with only the clothes on their back. When disaster strikes, clean laundry and a warm shower can be a simple and helpful aid to help people get back on their feet. Positive connection is often what communities need during times of distress. Someone to sit with and share what has happened, or have a friendly laugh. How it works Orange Sky’s Natural Disaster Response operates alongside our core services, allowing us to mobilise quickly when communities need support. Our model has been refined over time to be fast, flexible and responsive, delivering practical services where they’re needed most. We’ve supported communities during some of Australia’s largest natural disasters, including Cyclone Marcia, the Black Summer Bushfires and major east coast flooding. In each response, our role is to complement broader recovery efforts and help communities regain a sense of normality. Our disaster response work is guided by strong local leadership and only possible through collaboration with councils, emergency services, community organisations, volunteers and supporters. Together, we play a small but meaningful role in supporting recovery on the ground. Expected outcomes Immediate response and support Delivering essential services of clean laundry and warm showers to communities affected by natural disasters ensures that individuals and families can regain a sense of comfort and normality during challenging times. Community resilience and recovery By strengthening community bonds, Orange Sky helps to facilitate cohesion and resilience by providing a safe space for people to connect and support each other. By providing ongoing support and services, this assists in the short-term recovery whilst communities are able to regroup. Increased accessibility and reach By expanding our fleet of mobile services, we are able to reach disaster-prone locations, providing essential services, and ensuring timely deployment of resources to areas most in need. Collaboration and partnerships Building strong partnerships with local authorities, disaster response organisations and community groups is a key ingredient to ensure a coordinated and effective response. By engaging our existing volunteer community, Orange Sky is able to support our trained network of compassionate individuals to support and expand our impact. What you're supporting Remote Communities Free Laundry and Showers Natural Disaster Response Transitional Accommodation Innovation in Trial Young People School Laundry Program