Why hygeine products? 

As the scope of our harm reduction programming continues to expand, so too must our efforts to ensure that our space is welcoming and affirming to all people who need access to these important services. So in 2020, we wish to expand the sexual health products and hygiene products we distribute, with a focus on ensuring the needs of women in our communities are being met, and we need your help to do it!

Studies show that women are more likely to access harm reduction programs and services that also provide access to basic hygiene products for a variety of reasons. Our partners at The Women & HIV/AIDS Initiative ( whai.ca ) through recent consultation with women who use drugs and harm reduction service providers found that not only does access to hygeine and cosmetic supplies encourage women to use harm reduction programs, but also address needs related to self-image, mental health and even safety. From their findings, they write “Hygeine supplies and cosmetics can be helpful for women who live in poverty, and for women who may be hiding or covering blemishes or injuries. Notably, women who use drugs emphasized the relationship between poor mental health and risky drug use practices”. Their findings also noted that access to these products can help to address safety concerns to women who are at higher risk of violence (such as trans women).   

The AIDS Network has a supply of hygeine products available for the people we help, but we need your help to ensure that we are able to consistently offer these products as an ongoing part of our harm reduction program. Items we most urgently need are:

• Menstrual products (tampons, pads)                   
• Toothpaste
• Toothbrushes
• Deodorant  
• Baby wipes
• Soap/Body Wash/ Shampoo

Other items we would happily accept include hair elastics, hairbrushes, razors, q-tips, cosmetics, undergarments and pregnancy tests.

How can you help? 

1. For businesses that sell or distribute products of this kind you can make a Gift in Kind donation of product (The AIDS Network is a registered charitable organization and Gift in Kind donations are eligable for charitable receipts reflecting fair market value of the products)
2.  For individuals, you can organize a donation drive or make personal donations of these items. 
3. If your business would like to help us with our donation drives, you can connect with us to be added to our drop-off site list! 

You can drop off donated items at: 

The AIDS Network office 

140 King St E suite 101 (lower level) – Hamilton

9:00pm – 5:00pm Monday through Friday 

Tracie’s Place Restaurant and Karaoke 

592 Upper James St – Hamilton

The first Thursday of every month, 5:00pm – 11pm 

Your help acquiring these items will go a long way towards helping some of our communities most vulnerable women in need.

Got questions, or want to coordinate a donation drive with us? Contact Community Engagement Coordinator James Diemert at cec@aidsnetwork.ca