Chattooga Family Connection is helping local schools address an often-overlooked need among students — access to basic hygiene items.

The organization recently received a generous donation toward this year’s Back to School Bash. The donor, who asked to remain anonymous, requested that a portion of the contribution be set aside specifically to help meet hygiene needs in local schools.

Chattooga Family Connection Director Maisha Ludy personally visited several schools to deliver checks that can be used to purchase hygiene supplies for students.

Schools receiving the donations included Chattooga High School, Trion High School, Summerville Middle School, Menlo Elementary School and Lyerly Elementary School.

According to Family Connection, administrators and staff at each school expressed the same concern: hygiene items are badly needed, particularly new underwear and deodorant.

While items such as notebooks, pencils and backpacks often receive attention during back-to-school drives, basic personal-care products can also have a major impact on a student’s comfort, confidence and ability to focus during the school day.

Family Connection is encouraging residents who would like to help to consider contacting one of the local schools directly about donating hygiene products.

Even relatively small donations of items such as deodorant, new packaged underwear and other basic personal-care products can help schools maintain supplies for students who may unexpectedly need them during the school year.

The organization says the anonymous donation is already helping schools meet immediate needs and is serving as a reminder that community support can make a meaningful difference for local students.