Leadership Chattooga is calling on the community to support a vital Toiletry Drive throughout the month of September, aimed at providing essential hygiene and household products to underserved families in Chattooga County. The initiative highlights a critical and often overlooked gap: federal assistance programs like Food Stamps/EBT do not cover these necessary items, leaving many families struggling to afford basic necessities.

Amy K. Anderson, 4-H Extension Agent for Chattooga County and a key organizer of the drive, emphasized the dire need. “Did you know that Food Stamps/EBT does not cover toiletries, cleaning products, toilet paper, laundry products, diapers and wipes, etc.?” Anderson noted. “Many families face significant challenges in acquiring these items, which are crucial for health, hygiene, and dignity.”

The Toiletry Drive seeks to collect a comprehensive range of items to meet these fundamental needs. Donations requested include:

Personal Hygiene: Toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap (bar and liquid), shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, feminine hygiene products.
Household Essentials: Toilet paper, paper towels, multi-surface cleaners, dish soap, laundry detergent.
Baby Care: Diapers (all sizes) and baby wipes.

Once collected, these valuable donations will be distributed directly to students and families through established community channels, including Chattooga and Trion Schools, local Head Start programs, and the Chattooga County Resource Center (CRC). This targeted distribution ensures that the items reach those who need them most, directly impacting children and families in the community.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for our community to come together and make a tangible difference in the lives of our neighbors,” said a representative for Leadership Chattooga. “Access to basic hygiene items is not a luxury; it’s a necessity that impacts health, school attendance, and overall well-being. By filling this gap, we can help ensure that every family has the resources to live with dignity.”

Community members, local businesses, and organizations are strongly encouraged to participate by donating new, unopened items throughout September. Drop-off locations will be announced shortly, but interested donors can contact Amy K. Anderson at the Chattooga County 4-H Extension office for more information on how to contribute or to coordinate larger donations.

Leadership Chattooga urges everyone to rally behind this initiative and help provide vital supplies that empower families and strengthen the community. Your generosity can make a profound impact.