Since the Barunga Laundry opened in February 2019, it has played a key role in improving health and wellbeing for our mob. Our laundry was created to address one of our biggest health challenges—scabies.
Since the Barunga Laundry opened in February 2019, it has played a key role in improving health and wellbeing for our mob. Our laundry was created to address one of our biggest health challenges—scabies.
Scabies is a parasite that burrows under your skin, causing intense itching. Scratching breaks the skin, allowing bacteria from your nails to enter, which can lead to infection and sores. This bacteria can affect vital organs like the heart and kidneys, potentially causing rheumatic heart disease or kidney failure later in life. By providing reliable access to laundry services, we help reduce the risk of scabies and its long-term health impacts.
Our laundry is free and fully automated, meaning everyone has reliable access to hot water, detergent, and industrial chemicals—all key components to effectively killing scabies. The success of the laundry is evident, with a 60% reduction in scabies presentations within the first three years of operation.
More than just a laundry, this space has become a vital gathering point for the community. It offers a safe, welcoming environment where people can meet, share stories, and take care of their needs.
Khalia, a Barunga resident, shares, “I use the laundry two, three times a week. Some people don’t have their own washing machine at home. Sometimes it’s broken, and it takes time to buy a new one.”
The laundromat has also created local jobs, empowering community members and offering valuable employment experience to young people. Freddie, one of our laundry attendants, plays an important role maintaining the machines, supporting patrons, and caring for the facility.
“This laundry here means a lot to us,” Freddie says. “It’s good to have one of these and it’s helping everyone.”
Having access to clean clothes has had a significant impact on the community. Kids are attending school more regularly, and adults are more confident at work, knowing their clothes are clean and presentable. The Bagala Laundry stands as a shining example of how a simple service can improve overall health and wellbeing while strengthening our community.
The Barunga Laundry combines practical support with a vision for a healthier future. It shows how community-driven solutions can address pressing health challenges while creating lasting change. Through this initiative, we are proving that small actions, when done together, can lead to big results.