Southend Care Bank, a registered charity, is stepping up to address hygiene needs in the community amid rising financial pressures. The charity was established in December 2020 to address the growing cost-of-living crisis and to increase access to hygiene products through local food banks and community pantries. Yet it has quickly caught fire, with almost 500 registered members already.
To meet this growing need for support, Southend Care Bank holds monthly drop-in sessions at St Mark’s Centre and Westcliff Library. These sessions serve as a vital resource for families in need, offering hygiene supplies that are often overlooked in traditional food assistance programs.
Recently, Southend Care Bank secured funding to create and distribute hygiene bags, which will be given to families facing severe financial difficulties during the summer holidays. The organization plans to hand out 50 hygiene bags. Through this partnership, we’re making sure families don’t have to worry about accessing these basic products that foster dignity and well-being.
Charlotte Wood, the treasure at Southend Care Bank explained that these personal hygiene products were vital to helping children feel confident and comfortable.
“Children struggling to get deodorant or period products may face bullying at school and not be included in social situations, which can lead to depression.” – Charlotte Wood
The charity’s initiative makes real moves to improve short-term hygiene issues. It doesn’t stop there – their advocacy demands that young people feel included. Southend Care Bank wants to address social exclusion through addressing these basic needs. Through this effort, we hope to alleviate the mental health burdens that too frequently trail behind.
Meanwhile the cost-of-living crisis continues to batter household budgets throughout the region. That’s why care banks like Southend Care Bank are coming to the rescue of the most vulnerable families. Their strong dedication to supplying hygiene products allows people to not feel ashamed or dismissed because of their financial status.
