COMMUNITIES across Donegal are being encouraged to take part in National Hygiene Week, a nationwide campaign led by Hygiene Hub, the charity working to tackle hygiene poverty in Ireland.

Beginning today, the initiative aims to raise awareness about the impact hygiene poverty is having on those struggling with the cost of living.

Hygiene poverty, the inability to afford the everyday hygiene items most of us take for granted like shampoo, deodorant or toothpaste, continues to affect thousands of households across Ireland.

Hygiene Hub, founded in 2020, has grown into a vital support network, distributing nearly 100,000kg of products to individuals and families in need through its wide network of community partners.

Despite these achievements, the charity warns that demand is higher than ever as the cost of living continues to place further strain on many.

Launching National Hygiene Week, Ciára Dalton, Co-Founder of Hygiene Hub, said their aim is simply to ensure that no one has to go without essential hygiene items.

“Five years on, the need is greater than ever,” she said.

“We’re incredibly proud of the difference we’ve made, but we cannot do it alone.

“National Hygiene Week is both a celebration of what has been achieved and a call to action for everyone to get involved – whether by donating products, giving time as a volunteer, or supporting us financially.”

Speaking on behalf of Hygiene Hub Donegal, Coordinator Vic Riley encouraged the Donegal community to #SpreadKindness to those who need a helping hand.

“We know that many in Donegal are struggling to afford the everyday essential hygiene items that most of us take for granted, and yet this issue remains hidden,” she said.

“We want to ensure that everyone in our local community has access to hygiene products to feel clean, confident and healthy, no matter their circumstances.”

Hygiene Hub invites individuals, schools, businesses and local groups to take part in this year’s National Hygiene Week by donating products, fundraising, or volunteering with their local Hub to support local collections and distributions.

To find out more visit: www.hygienehub.ie/nhw