Fresh Clothes, Fresh Start: Catching Lives is fundraising for a new washing machine

Catching Lives is launching a £3,000 fundraising appeal to replace one of our industrial washing machines that is coming to the end of its life.

A generous donor has offered to match fund every £1 of the ‘Fresh Clothes, Fresh Start’ appeal, which means every donation up to £1,500 will be doubled.

Tasmin Maitland, Chief Executive of Catching Lives, said: “Clean clothes help people to maintain their dignity and well-being while homeless. Alongside showers, our laundry service is a vital part of the day centre.

“As well as clients washing their clothing and bedding, we wash towels from the showers, and aprons and tea towels from the kitchen. Last year, we did almost 3,000 loads of laundry - we have to use commercial machines to cope with demand.

“Please help us reach our goal.”

Catching Lives provides essential facilities at its Day Centre to support people who are homeless, including access to hot meals, showers and laundry.

A Catching Lives client said: “I can't afford to take [washing] to a laundrette as I am street homeless. The weather hasn't been very nice recently so bringing the clothes and bedding to be washed and dried is essential, as sleeping on wet bedding is affecting my health"

Another added: "Having clean clothes allows me to feel normal and go places without feeling or "looking" homeless. It's also good for mental health to perform regular life activities and gives me a routine"

Any funds raised beyond the target will go towards laundry costs such as washing detergent.

Support the appeal here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/catchinglivesfreshstart

Catching Lives is a day centre open 7 days a week, providing essential facilities (food, laundry, showers etc) and individual support to improve housing, health and social connection. Our vision is of a society where everyone has a safe place to live and the opportunity to lead a fulfilling life.