MACON, Ga. — People who don't have easy access to laundry facilities can find it difficult to wash and dry clothes for themselves and their children. Friday, some folks gathered to wash clothes for others and it didn't cost those families a dime.
A group called Southern Center for Choice Theory hosted the "Laundry Days" event at the Quality Laundromat on Gray Highway.
Tiffany Pertillo washes about six loads of laundry each week at the laundromat. "I spend like $30," said Pertillo.
Friday afternoon, she got so save some of that money. Gloria Cisse with Southern Center for Choice Theory partnered with the Community Foundation of Central Georgia to pay for 12 families to wash and dry two loads of laundry each. She says she hopes the program reminds families that they have support.
"They understand that people haven't forgotten that they exist," said Cisse.
Choice Theory provided washing detergent and volunteers to help fold laundry.
Each family received a bag with some snacks, water, and a few pamphlets full of information about other programs and resources in Macon.
Pertillo says she's grateful to be able to save her coins because every penny counts when you have a family.
"I can use that money for gas, extra to pay for bills, or do something for the kids, so it saves a good little bit in my pocket this time," said Pertillo.
The program also aims to cut down on referrals to the Division of Family and Children's Services based on kids' physical appearances because of dirty clothes.
"There are people who have no problem linking arms with them and sharing the resources that they have," said Cisse.
The Southern Center for Choice Theory group says they plan on hosting laundry days twice a month through September.