Having easy access to essential toiletries such as toothpaste, shampoos, sanitary items and deodorant is something that many Coasties may take for granted.
But for some members of the community, these everyday items are considered luxuries that are too difficult to obtain.
Woman Hood – The Pink Bin Initiative, led by local Keira Smith and her mum Tanya, is helping to turn things around one pink bin at a time for women who struggle to afford everyday toiletries.
Woman Hood distributes pink bins to businesses across the Coast which serve as drop off where members of the community can donate toiletries for women in need.
Keira Smith’s grandmother, who grew up in poverty, inspired her to establish the pink bin initiative.
“My grandmother always told us how difficult it was to get essential toiletries,” Smith said.
“I wanted to develop an idea that would connect local businesses with community groups to ensure local individuals would no longer need to go without, like my grandmother did when she was young.”
Since October 2023, almost $80,000 worth of toiletries have been collected and delivered to local community groups by Woman Hood Central Coast.
“We hope to continue to inspire local businesses to host our pink bins so that we can continue collecting toiletries for the community,” Smith said.
The Office of Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch at 20 Blackwall Rd, Woy Woy, will be a drop-off point for toiletries during August and September.
“It’s a real privilege for our office to host a pink bin in support of the Woman Hood Central Coast movement,” Tesch said.
“Community donations of toiletries make a big difference, and I encourage our wonderful community to show their support for women doing it tough by making generous donations of toiletries.
“New, unused toiletries can be dropped off; this includes items such as shampoos, conditioners, hand moisturisers, tissues, sun blocks and lip balms.
“Our office is open between 9am and 5pm weekdays (closed for lunch between 12.30 and 1.30pm).
“Your donations will help change lives for the better.”
Central Coast businesses interested in hosting a pink bin are encouraged to email womanhood222@gmail.com.
New and unopened toiletries that can be donated include shampoo/conditioner, soap, body wash, toothpaste, toothbrushes, shaving creams, razors, hand and body moisturisers, sunblock, lip balm, sanitary products, face washers, towels, band aids, tote bags, toiletry bags, tissues, hair combs, hairbrushes and hand sanitiser.