By James Deviley
Contributing Writer
BROWN COUNTY – In a heartening collaboration, Family’s Radio Network and the Brown County Homeless and Housing Coalition have joined forces to launch a county-wide effort to collect hygiene items for the most vulnerable members of the community.
Called “Help for the Homeless Hygiene Drive,” this initiative aims to provide a fresh start to those facing homelessness and economic hardship.
With an extensive network of 128 collection sites placed across Brown County, the campaign has already garnered substantial support from the local community.
Liz Krumwiede, a passionate advocate for the cause, emphasized the transformative impact of personal hygiene on individuals’ self-esteem.
“I just know that people who get a boost of self-esteem, just by being clean, I find it to be an amazing way to lift themselves out of the situation they are in. It also enables them to allocate their resources toward more substantial necessities rather than spending money on the little things.” Krumwiede shared.
Green Bay, known for its generosity, has played a crucial role in the success of the initiative.
Access to hygiene items from hotels and the convenience of picking up extras while shopping have made it easier for the community to contribute.
Deb Weaver, another supporter of the cause, urged empathy, stating, “I would like everyone to put themselves in a person’s shoes who may be in need of these items. I know that if I were in a situation like the people receiving these items, I would love to be helped with a fresh start.”
As the community emerges from the challenges of the pandemic, this initiative serves as a poignant reminder of the essential role hygiene plays in an individual’s well-being.
The collective effort to provide these basic necessities not only addresses immediate needs but also contributes to fostering a sense of dignity and hope within the community’s most vulnerable members.
Some of the most needed items include bathroom tissue, deodorant, dental care, face and bath soap, laundry detergent, razors and trash bags.
The dates that you can drop off products are Sunday, Feb. 11 through Sunday, March 3.
Some of the local drop off stations include (but not limited to) Aurora Hospital, Bay Towel, Festival Foods, Brown County libraries, Green Bay Community Church, and many more.
For more information, visit thefamily.net or call (800) 236-9364.