About Our Mission

The Care Bank works to provide essential care items to families, individuals, and children. In the United States, hygiene and sanitation products are not covered by governmental programs. We believe in supporting community by helping people meet their basic human needs.

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With the prevalent economic crises Americans experience daily, there is a growing demand for support and resources for families and individuals who are unable to access items to take care of their functional needs. For those who struggle to consistently keep these essential items in their homes, it can take a toll on their mental health. 

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Hygiene poverty and insecurity occurs when a person or family cannot afford products to take care of their general health and overall wellbeing. Oftentimes, someone in this situation may find themselves:

 

• Not using shampoo, conditioner, or soap while showering or bathing

• Sharing toothbrushes or using a toothbrush that is too old to be considered hygienic, and not using toothpaste

• Washing laundry without detergent

• Not changing a baby’s diaper enough or reusing soiled diapers

• Using feminine products that may not be clean or leak

• Using products such as dish soap as shampoo or body wash

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Without proper care products, people may get sick more often. This can dramatically affect youth and adults alike. 

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A study on low-income families who got free diapers from a non-profit showed an $11 economic gain for every $1 spent on diaper assistance. Parents could work without fear of being absent or even losing their jobs because they could send diapers to daycare. It even allowed parents to complete training programs to help them get raises. Similarly, regular access to hygiene products enables students to miss school less frequently. 

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In the United States, one in three low-income households struggle to afford supplies. These products aren't included in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps.

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Some examples of items NOT included in government assistance programs are:

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• Soap

• Shampoo

• Feminine products

• Diapers

• Cleaning products

• Trash bags

• Deodorant

• Toilet paper

• Dish soap

• Laundry detergent

 

Once someone falls into hygiene poverty, it can be nearly impossible to come out of it given the economic climate. Without proper hygiene, adults struggle to find employment to be able to afford these items. Additionally, lack of access to these products makes chronic illnesses worse.

 

Though we desperately call on our government officials to help provide more assistance to it's citizens to meet their basic human needs, we are here to offer support where we can. With your help, The Care Bank will be able to offer assistance to individuals and families desperately needing love, kindness, and compassion.

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