Ithaca Laundry: Clean Clothes With A Chance Of Dignity, Hope, & Empowerment
- by XpatAthens
- Thursday, 29 May 2025
The Birth of an Idea: A Vision for Change
The story of Ithaca Laundry began in 2016, when 3 students—Thanos Spiliopoulos, Fanis Tsonas, and Andili Rachouti—decided to bring a powerful idea to life. Inspired by a similar initiative in Australia, they set out to create the first mobile laundry service for the homeless not just in Greece, but in Europe. In April 2016, Ithaca’s mobile laundry unit hit the streets of Athens for the first time, launching what would become an ongoing mission to provide clean clothes to those in need. By January 2017, Ithaca began operating daily, growing both in the number of people it helped and the scope of its services.
Fast forward less than a decade, and the Ithaca team is greater than ever, as is the work they do. From those early days, when resources were tight and their team small, Ithaca has grown into a comprehensive support system for vulnerable groups, constantly expanding its outreach and impact in the community.
Restoring Dignity, One Load at a Time
What makes Ithaca Laundry’s work truly extraordinary isn’t just the act of washing clothes; it’s the dignity it restores. For many, the idea of fresh, clean clothes might seem like a small luxury. But, for those without a home, those considered homeless, often invisible and struggling, as well as those living in overcrowded conditions or facing challenges such as lack of access to basic necessities like electricity and water, doing laundry can be an overwhelming challenge. it becomes an essential form of respect. Ithaca’s services go far beyond cleanliness; they are about offering people their dignity back. It’s a heartfelt gesture, simple yet profoundly powerful, that says, “We see you and you matter.”
But Ithaca Laundry doesn’t stop at laundry. They also collaborate with other organizations and distribute food prepared by them to those in need. And let me tell you, the people coming to take a bag of food were not just homeless individuals—they were elderly citizens who struggle to cook for themselves, people living in cramped homes with too many others, and even those who, despite having a roof over their heads, are financially strained and just need a bit of support. The beauty of Ithaca’s work is that there’s no discrimination: help is offered to anyone who needs it. Whether someone is coming for clean clothes or a bag of food, the help is provided with open arms, no questions asked.
From the moment the Ithaca van rolls up at 10 AM, people are already there, waiting in line with bags of dirty laundry in hand. Many of them arrive early, not just for clean clothes, but for the sense of community that Ithaca provides.
As we observed, the connection between Ithaca and the people it serves is palpable. The gratitude in the eyes of those who take a bag of food, or get their laundry done, is unforgettable. The visitors are welcomed warmly, and as we stood there, it was impossible not to notice how every person who crossed our path smiled, waved, or said hello—a clear sign of the sense of belonging they feel. The sense of hope and appreciation was evident in every interaction.
What struck us even more profoundly was how familiar the staff were with the people they serve—they knew them by name and vice versa. Ithaca’s impact is so needed and so beautifully embraced that it planted a seed of hope and gratitude in our hearts, reminding us of the power of compassion and community.
Social Support & Job Counseling: Going Beyond Laundry
As we already mentioned, in 2021, they launched a Social Service to provide psycho-social support to vulnerable groups, assisting with everything from medical appointments to navigating the complexities of daily life. Many people visiting Ithaca don’t just need clean clothes; they need someone to help them reconnect with the systems and resources that can help them rebuild their lives. The social worker is there to lend a helping hand and offer solutions to these everyday challenges.
Moreover, Ithaca Laundry is a place where collaboration thrives. They work with other NGOs and organizations to ensure that each individual receives the support they need. It’s a network of care, a reminder that when we come together, we can make a lasting impact.
A Path to Employment: Empowering Through Work
In addition to the laundry services and social support, Ithaca also runs a program for employment reintegration. Many of the staff members are people who were once homeless themselves, now given the opportunity to work in a supportive and structured environment. Through this program, they gain skills, experience, and confidence that can help them re-enter the job market. To date, 26 people have been part of Ithaca's Team, have managed to reenter the job market and gain equal opportunities to find a job again. This sense of continuity is invaluable; it shows that Ithaca is not just a temporary fix, but a sustainable solution to helping people reclaim their lives and their independence.
And now, it becomes evident what lies behind the name Ithaca. It's about the journey; the journey of reintegration and recovery, much like the poet Konstantinos Kavafis wrote: "The journey is more important than the destination." It’s not just about providing food or washing clothes but helping people rebuild their lives, step by step. Trust me when I say we heard stories of individuals who lost everything in an instant, and yet, they’re here now, standing tall with the support of Ithaca.
Ithaca Laundry's Weekly Schedule
Ithaca Laundry operates at different locations throughout the week to serve vulnerable communities. On Mondays, their services are available at the Club for UNESCO – Piraeus and Islands (Mikalis 51, Piraeus) from 10:00 to 14:00. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, they are stationed at Koumoundourou Square, from 10:00 to 17:00. Wednesdays are dedicated to the Community Center “Cheirapsies” in Corinth, where the team is present from 11:00 to 16:00. On Fridays you can find them from 11:00 to 14:00 again at the Club for UNESCO – Piraeus and Islands (Kotyoron 35, Piraeus). Through this rotating schedule, Ithaca ensures access to its mobile laundry services in various key areas where the need is greatest.
Every month, at Koumoundourou Square, the Pop-Village arrives to create a warm, welcoming space of care and human connection. It’s a day where all three pillars of Ithaca’s mission combine in one meaningful event. Visitors come together to exchange smiles, thoughts, feelings, and experiences, creating a sense of belonging and support. The volunteers and staff of Ithaca join forces with others to offer a variety of services, ensuring that everyone who walks through the door feels valued and cared for:
- Laundry services with the Mobile Unit
- Psychosocial support
- Employment counseling
- Haircuts by The Box Hair Studio
- Distribution of essential items
The Youth Behind Ithaca: A Generation of Hope
What truly stood out to us during our visit was the youth and energy of the team behind Ithaca Laundry. These young individuals—many of whom started out as interns or volunteers—are dedicated to the cause and passionate about making a real difference in the world. It’s inspiring to see the next generation taking on such important work for the greater good. It’s a reminder that hope isn’t just about the future; it’s about what young people are doing today to create a better tomorrow.
We spoke with some of them, and the conversation was nothing short of inspiring. The common question we asked all of them was, "What made you want to work here and do this?" And the answer was always the same: "What we take back, because giving only makes you richer." It may be a cliché, but it's one of those truths that resonates deeply. Each team member had their own unique perspective and background. Sure, they came from different academic paths, but the common thread was their deep willingness to do good.
For example, Michalis' drive to help stems from his childhood, as his siblings are part of a vulnerable group. Marille started as a intern and simply couldn’t stop helping; it is kinda addictive. We also met Erica, who had just started her internship at Ithaca only three days before. Despite being so new, she had already felt the love and support that surrounds this beautiful action—there’s a certain energy here that you can’t ignore.
And then, there’s Konstantinos, who is responsible for the daily operations and the welcoming and service of Ithaca’s beneficiaries. He once found himself in a difficult place, but with Ithaca’s support, he made his way back. We witnessed firsthand the power of love and care for others. The entire atmosphere was filled with a sense of mutual respect and a deep commitment to giving back. It’s amazing what can be accomplished when people genuinely care for one another.
To close, I’d like to leave you with something Thanos, a volunteer from the Ithaca team shared with me: "We are all potentially homeless." It’s a reminder that life can change in an instant, and it’s through empathy and community that we can make the world a better place for all.