On Thursday the Wollongong surgeon called on councillors, politicians and community leaders to help make his vision of bringing Orange Sky Laundry to town a reality.

The world’s first free mobile laundry service for the homeless was the brainchild of 2016 Young Australians of the Year Nic Marchesi and Lucas Patchett.

Earlier this month the pair set up shop outside the Warrawong community centre, as part of their trek to Tasmania to deliver the nation’s 10^th specially fitted-out van.

Dr Ashford is on a mission to raise $100,000 to make the service a permanent fixture on Illawarra streets.

He’s started the ball rolling with a donation of his own, while Ramsay Health Care, operators of Wollongong Private Hospital, have also put funds towards the cause.

‘’Disadvantage can sneak up on you when you least expect it, and some of the things that you take for granted can be taken away very quickly,’’ Dr Ashford said.

‘’I enjoy a lot of things that other people don’t – one of those things is having clean clothes.

‘’Orange Sky Laundry is about meeting people where they’re at and providing them the opportunity to clean their clothes and have some non-judgmental interaction.’’

The social aspect of the service is something that Wollongong Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery welcomes.

‘’It’s not just about laundry, it’s an opportunity for volunteers to engage with those who are homeless and check on their welfare and link them in with other support services,’’ he said.

Whitlam MP Stephen Jones added: ‘’People who are homeless often say they feel invisible, so this service is about showing them that they’re not invisible, that someone recognises they have the same needs as everyone else.’’

The $100,000 goal will purchase the van and cover operating costs for 12 months. About $25,000 will be needed for ongoing annual funding.

To help contact Dr Ashford on 4226 6111 or visit www.orangeskylaundry.com.au