GRACE HELPING HANDS
Hygiene Products Promote Health
Providing women and children with hygiene products is crucial for their health, dignity, and promotes mental health and well-being.
Mission:
We build stronger communities by providing essential hygiene products to those in need.
We empower homeless women and children by providing essential hygiene products and promoting good hygiene. We strive to create a world where everyone, regardless of income or circumstance, has access to these necessities.
What is hygiene poverty?
Who are we?
Empowering Lives Through Hygiene
Founded in 2024, Grace Helping Hands is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to providing essential hygiene products to those experiencing homelessness and poverty in Howard County, Central Maryland and mid-Atlantic Region. We rely on the generosity of our community to continue our mission. Your donations help us purchase and distribute these vital products, making a real difference in the lives of those in need.
Hygiene poverty is the lack of access to essential hygiene products, such as soap, shampoo, and menstrual products. It can arise from financial constraints or availability of these items. This often leads to feelings of shame, humiliation, and social isolation.
The consequences of hygiene poverty are far-reaching. It can impact physical health, mental well-being, and social interactions. For example, poor hygiene can lead to skin infections and other health issues. Additionally, it can negatively affect self-esteem and confidence, hindering social and professional opportunities. In children, hygiene poverty can impact early childhood development, learning, and social skills.
THE VALUES WE LIVE BY
A Movement for Hygiene Justice
We're a grassroots movement driven by a passion for social justice. We believe that everyone deserves the dignity of basic hygiene, regardless of their circumstances. Our mission is to challenge hygiene poverty and empower individuals to reach their full potential. By working together, we can create a more equitable and compassionate society.
Vision
We envision a community where every person, regardless of their circumstances, has access to essential hygiene products, leading to improved health and well-being.
Core Values
Dignity and Respect: We treat all individuals with kindness and compassion, recognizing their inherent worth.
Community Focus: We are committed to serving the needs of our local community, particularly unhoused women and children.
Empowerment: We strive to empower individuals by providing them with the tools and resources to improve their lives.
Belief
Basic hygiene is not a privilege
How we work
Donations: We collect donations of essential hygiene products, such as soap, shampoo, deodorant, and menstrual products.
Distribution: These products are then distributed to our network of community partners, including shelters and social service organizations.
Impact: By providing these essential items, we help to improve the health, dignity, and well-being of unhoused women and children in Howard County and Central Maryland.
Your Support, Our Impact:
By donating to Grace Helping Hands, you're not just helping one organization; you're supporting a community-wide effort to address the needs of those experiencing homelessness and poverty.
Board of Directors
Kemisola Lofinmakin
Vice Chairperson
Theona Salmon Ponder
Chairperson
Margareta Bradley
Secretary
Vatt Russell
Treasurer
Kemie Lindsey
Board Member
Joseph Ehlinger
Board Member
Emani King
Board Member
2024 In Review
2024 was a transformative year for Grace Helping Hands, as we launched our mission to uplift homeless women and children by delivering essential toiletry kits. Founded in Columbia, MD, on August 26, 2024, Grace Helping Hands sprang into action, driven by a deep commitment to restoring dignity and providing practical support to those in need.
Operational Highlights:
In December 2024, we mobilized our resources and distributed 370 toiletry kits, bringing vital supplies and a sense of dignity to women and children facing homelessness. This effort was powered by strong partnerships with local organizations, including:
City of Refuge, Baltimore
Community Action Council of Howard County
Grassroots Crisis Intervention
Laurel Multiservice Center
Interfaith Works
Achievements:
Delivered 370 toiletry kits in December 2024, offering immediate relief and support to those in need.
Forged impactful partnerships with shelters and service organizations, expanding our reach.
Established a dedicated and visionary Board of Directors.
Completed all essential registrations, certifications, and planning documents, building a solid foundation for growth.