Charity is raising awareness of hygiene poverty across Cork

A charity has seen 2,770kg of hygiene products donated throughout Cork since it was formed at the end of 2020.

That’s according to Hygiene Hub which has launched Ireland’s fourth National Hygiene Week to raise awareness of hygiene poverty, which is affecting people across the country.

Hygiene poverty is the inability to afford the everyday hygiene items most of us take for granted like shampoo, soap or toothbrushes and is affecting many across the country who are struggling with the increasing costs.

Data shows that the monthly average costs of hygiene items have increased by 25% since 2021.

National Hygiene Week began on Monday and runs until 15 September.

Launching the week, Ciára Dalton, Head of Partnerships, said: “This National Hygiene Week, we are encouraging the public #SpreadKindness to those who need a helping hand.

“We know that many in Ireland are struggling to afford the everyday essential hygiene items that most of us take for granted, and yet this issue remains hidden. We want to ensure that everyone in Ireland has access to hygiene products to feel clean, confident and healthy, no matter their circumstances. Join us on our mission to challenge hygiene poverty by spreading kindness with us during National Hygiene Week.”

Since the establishment of the Cork project in late 2020, 2,770kg of hygiene products have been donated throughout Cork throughout their 10 drop off points, supporting 6 community partners.

You can support Hygiene Hub by:

Donating products to a local drop off point

Donating through their iDonate page

Hosting a one-off hygiene drive at work or school

Volunteering for a local hub