Share the Dignity is working with the community to ensure women don’t have to choose between good hygiene and a meal.
The organisation is collecting handbags filled with sanitary products and hygiene items – and other thoughtful gifts – for women experiencing hardship. All donations of bags stay in the area and are distributed through local support services.
If you have a spare handbag lying around home, fill it with new, unopened items and drop it in the collection boxes found at several locations around the Valley.
Share the Dignity drop off locations include the Bega District News and Merimbula News Weekly offices, the Bega TAFE campus, Phantasea at Merimbula, and shire libraries at Bega, Eden and Tura.
Items suggested for placing inside the handbags include soap, pads and tampons, moisturisers, deodorants, toothpaste and toothbrushes, baby wipes or hygiene wipes, makeup, lip balm, tissues, socks, hair ties, compact mirror, gift cards, hand cream and shampoo and conditioner.
Everyone is also encouraged to write a note for each handbag so every woman who receives one will know they are valued.
Share the Dignity encourages people to be creative when filling their bags but request the following items are not included: Food (chocolate, lollies, alcohol) and pharmaceuticals (Panadol, throat lozenges, condoms), because everyone has different needs and allergies, and sharp items (razors, scissors) for the safety of the volunteers and recipients.
For more information visit the website www.sharethedignity.com.au.
