Newark Resident Spearheads ‘Free Laundry Wash Night’ In South Ward

NEWARK, NJ — A longtime resident of Newark’s South Ward plans to give back to his community this Thanksgiving season by spearheading a “free laundry wash night” for local residents.

Robert J. Austin II – an educator and nonprofit leader – his friends and some professional colleagues are putting together the event, which will take place from 4 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 16 at Showcase Laundromat, 377 Chancellor Avenue.

Residents of Newark will be able to wash their laundry free of charge at the holiday event. Registration in advance is required, and can be done online here.

Supporters of the event include: The Groom’s Garcon, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka and First Lady Linda Baraka, Councilman Patrick Council, Councilwoman LaMonica McIver, Patrick’s Downton Race to Summer, Councilwoman Louis Scott-Roundtree and Councilman C. Lawrence Crump, VisionByyVintage Photography, Ivy Hill Laundromat. Austin also secured support from local friends in Newark, Essex County and internationally, as far away as the United Kingdom, Japan and Jamaica.

According to a news release:

“The event was planned and organized in support of community members who are in need, and to attend to the well-being of low-income families and individuals during the upcoming holiday season. In addition, local community-based organizations Clinton Hill Community Action and United Community Corporation are donating laundry detergent and other supplies for the event and will be on-site to provide resources and services to those in attendance. A variety of community services and healthy snacks will be available at the event.”

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