United Way HPE is launching a month-long Hygiene Product Drive in support of seven different local food banks or programs that are supporting people who are experiencing homelessness. These organizations raised the alarm bell around a general lack of access to these items when the need for them is remarkably high.
“Part of our role in the community is to leverage resources and create capacity; when seven organizations are in need of similar items, it makes sense that we coordinate those efforts on their behalf and avoid all seven needing to run product drives of their own,” says Brandi Hodge, Executive Director, United Way HPE. It is a common issue that food banks and programs do not receive enough donations of tampons and hygiene products. Did you know that hygiene products are some of the most requested, but least donated items at a food bank? “They’re expensive items, and families living with low income often need help accessing appropriate supplies, so they turn to food banks and programs to help,” adds Hodge. In fact, Feed Ontario’s 2022 Hunger Report indicates a 42% increase in food bank visits over 2019 usage and one in three were first-time users of food bank services.
The Hygiene Product Drive will run from May 1 – 31 and will accept donations of items such as toothpaste, tampons, men’s deodorant, and body wash. “We’re really focusing on these four items specifically,” said Hodge. “Other items are needed and appreciated of course, but we were able to secure many of those through different channels.”
United Way encourages individuals, businesses, and organizations to participate in the drive by donating these products or organizing collection efforts within their workplaces. Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a difference in the lives of those struggling to afford these basic necessities.
IN SUPPORT OF: Care & Share Food Bank, Helping Hands Food Bank, Salvation Army, John Howard Society, Storehouse Food Bank, Central Hastings Support Network and North Hastings Community Cupboard.
Drop off supplies to: United Way HPE, 55 Harriett Street, Belleville, Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
For further inquiries please call 613-962-9531.
Emilie Leneveu, Community Relations Coordinator at United Way HPE, Penny Hart, and Liz McLennan, Campaign Support Coordinator at United Way HPE. (Photo: United Way HPE)
