‘It’s in the Bag’ Hygiene Bank callout for Advent
Some of the 2021 'It's in the Bag' collection
‘It’s in the Bag’ Hygiene Bank callout for Advent
As we approach Christmas, we would once again like to invite all staff and volunteers to join in an Advent collection with a difference. We are working with the Square Mile Hygiene Bank to collect toiletries and hygiene products for those in need.
Last year we collected over 62kg of products, which were distributed to people in need across London including a women and children's refuge, a school, a refugee charity and a shelter.
Why are we doing this?
The Hygiene Bank is a national charity which believes that everyone has a right to feel clean. Their mission is to ensure that everyone, including people living in poverty, has access to basic hygiene products.
Many people who are locked in poverty, or find themselves in times of crisis, experience the difficult decisions of choosing to pay their rent, heat their home or keep clean. Hygiene poverty can be shaming, humiliating and excluding and can lead to social isolation. It can contribute to a lack of confidence and have negative effects on physical health and mental wellbeing, development, employability and social interaction.
The Square Mile Hygiene Bank is our link to frontline organisations that work across London, and ensure donations of hygiene products reach people in need.
What to collect
The Hygiene Bank collects male and female grooming items and unisex items for adults, teens, children and babies.
They need new, unused and in-date beauty, grooming, household and hygiene essentials, including everyday items such as deodorant, shampoo, shower gel, period products and shaving gear. If you wish you could add a little luxury treat such as makeup, fragrance or skincare. If you use it then the chances are that other people will use it, too!
Where and when to donate
Donation drop off points – large cotton bags with the logo It’s In The Bag - will be placed in the Chapter House Reception, by the Security Control Box and the Concorde Lounge, and will be available from Wednesday 30th November to Wednesday 11th January.
If you are planning to attend the staff and volunteers Christmas Carol Service on Tuesday 20th December, there will be a donation point available as you enter.
Items donated will be collected by the Square Mile Hygiene Bank, who will sort and distribute to their network of community partners around London.
If you would prefer to make a financial donation, you can choose a gift from the Square Mile Hygiene Bank’s Wish List, which is updated regularly with the most needed products.
If you have any questions please email Sophie Stanes or call 020 3621 5523.
