Soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and menstrual products. What do all these products have in common? In many cases, these products are very expensive for the regular use they serve, but additionally they are not considered essential products for all people to receive. Unfortunately, the cost of these products can be prohibitive for some individuals and families who are struggling with increased expenses, especially during the pandemic. Additionally, menstrual products come with stigmas, as does menstruation – a completely natural process – and unfortunately can come upon one at unplanned times.
A small effort has been launched to help bring some of these needed resources to our community. In discrete locations, small baskets have been placed with several types of hygiene products. We have chosen restrooms mainly used by our community to house these products, so that those who might need them can have access to them. We have locations starting in the 2nd floor Women’s and Men’s Restrooms in C Building currently with a launch in 2nd floor A building restrooms shortly. Our policy is based on the honor system – take what you need as you need it and give to help replenish when and if you can. For anyone who has extras of these products, please contact a member of Schuylkill Hygiene Help and we will make arrangements to add this to our program. Also if you notice any materials needed in a particular site, please also contact us.
If you have the ability to help, we appreciate it, but helping others is the priority. We hope to reduce the stigma of seeking help to improve one’s hygiene and providing a mechanism to do that.