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If you were struggling to put food on the table for you or your family, it’s likely that other household essentials would also be hard to come by.
July, 2022
In the face of relentless cost of living pressures and the housing crisis, more than a million people a month are currently receiving food relief through the Foodbank network. In addition to the healthy fresh fruit, vegetables and pantry staples more commonly associated with Foodbank, we are also increasingly providing period care products, shampoo, conditioner and laundry products.
Toiletries such as toothbrushes and toothpaste, make-up and moisturisers, along with baby essentials like nappies and wipes shouldn’t be a luxury – they are a basic right. For someone who has lost everything in a fire or flood, or for someone escaping family and domestic violence, these everyday items play a significant role for people rebuilding their lives.
said Foodbank Australia CEO, Brianna Casey.
Hair care
We may take items such as shampoo and conditioner for granted, but for many, these are luxury items. Unfortunately, when times get tough, and household budgets take a hit, not everyone can afford to look after their hair in the same way. We provide food so people can eat and groceries as well, including hair care products, so everyone can meet their self-care needs. Having access to hygiene products boosts confidence, self-respect, and dignity.
Makeup
TW: physical violence/assault
No one should have to choose between food and feeling confident. Makeup may be seen as a luxury item and not something you would think we provide to our charities, but it can make all the difference for someone wanting to look their best say for a job interview or to ask for a promotion.
Our research shows that women struggling to afford everyday essentials are more likely than men to have experienced domestic violence in their lifetime. Makeup can be a very important tool for women wanting to hide a bruise or a scar from physical violence.
Skin care
Healthy skin should be possible for everyone and anyone. It affects confidence and could have a knock-on effect for someone already struggling to pay the bills. Foodbank works with partners who ensure we have a regular supply of products for our charities to offer their communities. Moisturisers, cleansers and other products are not luxury items, but essential items for many men, women, teenagers and children doing it tough.
Laundry
Having the ability to wash your clothes is essential to maintaining good hygiene, building confidence and feeling ready to face the day. Foodbank believes in the importance of having access to essential grocery items such as laundry products, no matter their background or situation. So many people take clean clothes for granted, but sadly for many, it can be out of reach.
Dishwashing detergent
What can be a simple chore for some can often end up compounding stress for people doing it tough. Washing dishes is a must-do chore, yet when detergent runs low and the budget is hurting, it can add to the stress that just keeps building.
Nappies
Did you know babies need a change of nappy at least 10-12 times per day, and 8-10 times per day for toddlers?
This is one key essential that families cannot drop from their budget and we’re so grateful to our national donors who ensure we have a regular supply of nappies all year round. Each year, we work with partners to ensure families have access to this essential, everyday item.
Period care
The idea of rationing tampons or pads seems unimaginable, but it is the reality women across the country face. We believe all women deserve the ability to manage their monthly period hygienically, comfortably and with dignity. Our research shows that the majority of people who have required Foodbank’s assistance over the last two years are women (60%).
Our goal is to alleviate some emotional strain by ensuring access to period products – crucial to a healthy, active and confident life.
Oral care
We understand that life happens to all of us, and sometimes getting the essentials like toothbrushes and toothpaste can be challenging. Brushing your teeth regularly can help prevent expensive dental bills and other consequences of bad dental health.
Toilet paper
Many of us experienced some worry, wondering if we would find toilet paper when panic buying emptied our supermarket shelves. But unfortunately, for people doing it tough right now, it can be a daily stress of how they will afford essentials like toilet paper.
Our partners
In times of emergencies or natural disasters, and every day that people across the country need assistance, our personal, pet and household care partners are ready to help. We thank them for their ongoing work to make sure all Australians have access to the essentials.
Every week, Australian families find themselves rationing out laundry detergent, toothpaste or shampoo, or taking them off the shopping list entirely. These are items that many can take for granted but are all part of living a life of dignity, confidence and comfort.
Foodbank believes in the importance of everyone, no matter your background or situation, being able to live a dignified life, with access to kitchen, laundry and bathroom necessities.