Needham Nonprofit Distributes More Than 500,000 Hygiene Products as Demand Grows

Hope and Comfort Hygiene Hub, a nonprofit based in Needham, is working to distribute more than 500,000 essential hygiene products to communities across the state. The group aimed to address the widespread hygiene insecurity affecting more than 2 million residents by distributing boxes of soap, deodorant, and shampoo during Hygiene Insecurity Week, Oct. 5-11.

Annually, the organization distributes approximately 5 million hygiene items, including toothpaste, soap, and shampoo, according to NewsCenter 5 Boston. 

"These products are not covered by SNAP or WIC. SNAP is what we used to call food stamps, so there is no safety net for people, for families who are struggling to get by," said Kerry Carter, CEO of Hope and Comfort, in a statement shared with NewsCenter 5. "It's this hidden crisis. It's about kids going to school, parents going on job interviews, and being healthy."

Hope and Comfort collaborates with more than 600 local partners, including Boston Public Schools, UMass Boston, and food pantries, to effectively distribute hygiene supplies.

“It breaks down those barriers that they have. Most of them can't really afford buying the hygienes, and this is a place where they can just come and get what they need without questions asked,” said Milly Perez, a teacher at the Boston Adult Tech Academy, in a statement shared with 7NEWS Boston.

Despite the nonprofit's large-scale efforts, demand continues to outpace supply: 625 organizations have visited the nonprofit's Needham location for supplies, and 355 remain on waiting lists.

Carter explained that Hope and Comfort is also seeking increased cash donations to expand its capacity and support more organizations and families in need.

More information about Hope and Comfort and its initiatives can be found on the organization's website.