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When we think about the items our local food pantries need most, food is usually the first thing that comes to mind. But there are many other necessities that families need every day, and hygiene products are often some of the hardest items for pantries and feeding programs to keep stocked.
That is why the United Way of Monongalia and Preston Counties Family Resource Network is spending the month of October collecting hygiene essentials with the help of local businesses and community partners. Ten local agencies are participating by hosting employee drives or serving as donation locations throughout the community.
The goal is simple: collect enough essentials to create hygiene kits that can be shared with local families and individuals. Each kit will include hygiene products, a new bookbag, and local resource information to help connect recipients with additional support.
The kits will be distributed through the Helpful Harvest Program, which works with more than 50 food pantries and feeding programs throughout Monongalia and Preston counties. Together, these agencies reach more than 7,600 individuals each month. Helpful Harvest also helps participating agencies access other necessities, including cleaning supplies, clothing, and baby essentials.
There are many ways to support this cause. Community members can drop off donations at The Grind, Hoot n' Howl or Spruce Street First Presbyterian Church. Employee drives are also being hosted by Clear Mountain Bank, the Health Department, Farmer, Cline and Campbell, Suttle & Stalnaker, J.S. Walker Associates, Health Right and Child Protective Services. Monetary donations to support the drive can also be made through the United Way of Monongalia and Preston Counties.
Items currently being collected include shampoo and conditioner, toothbrushes and toothpaste, bar soap and body wash, toilet paper, deodorant, razors and shaving cream, feminine hygiene products and laundry detergent.
Something as simple as a bottle of shampoo or a package of toothpaste can make a difference for someone who is having to choose between necessities. We are grateful to every business, agency, employee, and community member who is helping us fill this need. When we come together to share what we can, we make it a little easier for our neighbors to access the essentials they need.
Victoria Nottingham is the Family Resource Network Manager for the United Way of Monongalia and Preston Counties. She can be reached at victoria@unitedwaympc.org.