Council shares the dignity

Council staff have donated more than 300 hygiene products to help people at risk of domestic violence, homelessness or poverty.

Council took part in this year’s Dignity Drive, with collections boxes across Council offices including the libraries, customer service centres and Townsville Stadium.

Councillor Suzy Batkovic said Council had supported the program for more than three years.

“Council partners with Share the Dignity to help supply products like pads, tampons, menstrual cups, soaps and tissues to local services supporting people in need,” Cr Batkovic said.

“Period products are needed by anyone who has a period and they do carry a financial cost.

“Unfortunately, some people in our community have to choose between feeding their family or purchasing these products, especially with cost of living increases.

“By having these collection boxes on display, we are also helping to open up conversations and break down the stigma about periods.

“Council is proud to lend its support behind the program, which helps out so many people in the community.”

Mayor Troy Thompson said while there were a number of public donation boxes available throughout the March drive, a large percentage of the donations were made by Council staff.

“The Dignity Drive has a very special place in many of Council’s team member’s hearts, especially those who engage closely with communities, particularly those facing disadvantage,” Cr Thompson said.

Share the Dignity Founder and Managing Director, Rochelle Courtenay thanked Townsville for its ongoing support to help those in crisis and experiencing period poverty.

“I am so grateful to Townsville City Council for their tremendous support to help end period poverty,” she said.

“The cost-of-living crisis is seeing more people being forced to choose between buying period products and other essentials, leading to soaring requests for period products from our charity partners.

“It’s been heartwarming to see the community’s response, it’s really incredible to see people willing to help out others who are doing it tough at the moment.”

The Dignity Drive is one of the many initiatives Council is involved in to support the community.

For more information, visit Council's Share the Dignity page.