Imagine having to choose between buying fresh groceries or buying a bar of soap. Picture the stress of sending your child to school knowing you couldn't afford toothpaste this month. For many families right here in our community, this is a monthly reality.

What is Hygiene Poverty?

Hygiene poverty (or hygiene insecurity) is the inability to afford basic personal care and household cleaning products necessary for health, dignity, and full participation in society. These are items that many of us purchase regularly without a second thought.

This "hygiene poverty" traps individuals in cycles of inequity, negatively impacting their physical health, educational attainment, future employment opportunities, and overall emotional well-being. It causes deep uncertainty and stress for parents who don't know if they'll have these necessities from one month to the next.

The Family Resource Center provides hygiene items to client families on the first Friday of every month—and we have completely depleted all our supplies.

The Math Behind the Need

It takes approximately 450 items a month to meet the baseline needs of our Kroc FRC families. When you break down the costs, it becomes clear how much a small contribution can do:

4 Ways You Can Help Right Now

• Spread the Word: Share this need with Kroc Center Members and Participants.
• Look Around Your Home: Check your cupboards for any NEW, unused hygiene products you can spare.
• Shop with a Purpose: Next time you are out grocery shopping, buy an extra item specifically to donate.
• Make a Small Donation: A gift of just $12.50 helps an entire family feel whole for a month.

Where to Drop Off Donations

Donations can be dropped off during regular operating hours at either of these two campus locations:

• The Family Resource Center
• The Gym Donation Bin

Thank you so much for your generosity and for helping us support our neighborhood families!