THE HYGIENE CLOSET
There is a significant percentage of the WCCW population that receives no financial assistance while they are incarcerated. Additionally, what the state provides of basic needs for hygiene-related resources is inadequate. We have recently developed a “hygiene closet” of supplies for residents that qualify for needing additional products. Our hope is to have our local community of individuals, organizations, and faith groups to assist us with additional financial support so that we can have the inventory to provide this basic human need consistently (monthly) to the indigent* population at WCCW. These items we often take for granted – like toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant – are crucial for these women, as they not only help with disease prevention and physical health, but also provide a sense of mental and emotional well-being.
Samples/suggestions of the various items we are collecting for the Hygiene Closet can be found on our online wish list HERE
Products suggested are the brands that are often available to the entire population for purchase via the correctional center’s “canteen”- we’re trying to match those items available so that it won’t appear that recipients are getting something different/better/special/differential treatment. Right now we have been given special permission to just provide it to those that enroll and request these supplies each month (vs. the typical rule of having to provide every item to every woman on campus, ie approx. 370 – our current maximum population.)
The numbered items are the most urgent/requested: (and bulleted below are also needed, but less frequent)
NOTE: we need full sized products vs. travel size if possible
1) shampoo – VO5 or Pantene, OR 2-in-1 shampoo/conditioner (often found at Dollar Tree, and we’ve heard are good products!)
2) deodorant – Secret, Dove, or Degree – feminine and masculine scents
3) soap – Dove, Dial, Palmers, White Rain or Zest
4) toothpaste – Colgate, Crest
5) denture adhesive – Polygrip (or similar)
6) denture baths – Efferdent tablets
7) razors (single blade) – Gillette, Bic
• conditioner – VO5 or Pantene
• toothbrushes (anything generic is fine)
• lotion – Nivea, Palmers
• denture cups (or kits, incl. tablets)
• combs
• dental floss
*The indigent classification is determined by a few factors, but primarily any woman who receives less than $10 of support each month. Financial support comes from either family, work release or on-site job pay. Items available for purchase in the canteen range from $2-13 individually, so many are unable to “buy” all of their basic needs each month, therefore running out of these necessary supplies.
OUR VISION
“Having benefited from Ministry of Hope’s gifts of authentic connection, genuine belonging and deep healing, participants are empowered to create a better life for themselves and contribute positively to their communities.”
As the sole source of funding for the interfaith chaplaincy program at Western Correctional Center for Women, Ministry of Hope nurtures a safe space for residents to foster personal transformation, inspire future growth, and uncover the potential for new beginnings.