Moree residents are being encouraged to collect their unused toiletries or purchase them during their weekly shop in the lead-up to the festive season for the second annual Donate for Dignity Christmas drive.
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The local charity was established by Moree woman Jessica Duncan last year as a way to help local people in need, particularly over the Christmas period.
“Obviously Christmas is a time where everyone is celebrating, but it’s also a chance for people to think of others and give a little back, even if it’s just $5 in your weekly shop,” she said.
“At Christmas, people are more at risk when it comes to suicide and mental health problems, so it’s great for people down on their luck to know others care about their wellbeing and think of them during the festive season.
“The toiletries can help give a pick-me-up; when you feel confident and good, it can improve your mental health.”
Last year, Donate for Dignity distributed more than 100 packs of toiletries to local charities including Moree Area Homelessness Service, Moree Women’s Refuge, Moree Hospital and the Narrabri women’s and children’s refuge.
“We had some great feedback last year; people were very appreciative,” Ms Duncan said.
This year Ms Duncan hopes to distribute a similar number of packs, also giving some to Pius X Aboriginal Corporation and Moree Salvation Army.
The Christmas drive kicked off a couple of weeks ago, and already Donate for Dignity has been inundated with small toiletries from hotels and motels.
Ms Duncan is now pushing for larger toiletry items such as full-sized shampoo and conditioner, deodorant, toothpaste, soap, body wash, shower gel, shaving cream, moisturiser, toothbrushes, tissues, brushes/combs, razors, and feminine hygiene products such as sanitary pads and tampons.
Only new and unopened items can be accepted for health and safety reasons.
All donations can be dropped off at the donation bin at the Aboriginal Employment Strategy at 207 Balo Street.
A second drop-off point has also been established at Moree Visitor Information Centre which is open seven days.
Packs will be distributed mid-December.
For more information, go to the Donate for Dignity Facebook page.
