The bank has been set up by Claire O’Brien, who is from Letterkenny but works in Buncrana. She told the Journal she was inspired to do so after seeing the success of similar initiatives in the UK and other parts of Ireland. “The Hygiene Bank was set up in the UK in 2018 and came to Dublin at the end of 2019. A location was later set up in Galway as well. I saw it on Instagram and thought that it looked like a great idea. I was very eager to get one set up here.” Hygiene products are donated by individuals and companies. They are then collected by volunteers like Claire and distributed to local charities and organisations who work with those in need. Claire outlined how there has been a ‘huge demand’ for the products across the country and county and she was delighted that Supervalu, Buncrana agreed to become the first donation point. “I know that Supervalu work with a lot of charities and it was brilliant that they came on board. I’ve been talking to a few more charities and places as well, about getting other donation points.” The donation point is just inside the front door of the supermarket. The bank accepts donations of hygiene products including toothpaste (adult or child), toothbrushes, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel (unisex), razors, shaving foam, deodorant (unisex), sanitary products, toilet roll, laundry detergent, fairy liquid, hairbrush,hair ties, nappies, baby wipe and talcum powder. There is also a ‘Back to School’ campaign running at the moment, focusing on providing products for children in both primary and secondary schools. Anyone who wishes to donate can decide whether they want to do so for primary or secondary school students. For primary school students,The Hygiene Bank is seeking donations of toothpaste and shampoo (age five plus), kids’ body wash, hair ties, clips and brush, laundry detergent, nit comb and nit shampoo. For secondary school students, the bank is accepting donations of sanitary products, razors, shaving foam, shampoo and conditioner. You can also donate online at www.idonate.ie/5203_the-hygiene-bank-ireland.html. The list of what you can donate and information is also available at Hygiene Bank Donegal on Instagram and Facebook. If you’d like to offer a donation point or need items collected, email Claire at thbdonegal@gmail.com.