Taking care of oral health is crucial for overall well-being, from confidence to the ability to eat comfortably. Many of us understand the pain of oral issues and the expense of dental visits, which is why oral care is a daily priority. Unfortunately, for individuals and families like Keith* who struggle to afford food, access to essential grocery items like toothbrushes and toothpaste can be limited. “The toiletries that are available mean I can treat myself to something that I would not have the financial means to do so at this time and knowing the fact these items are donated makes it even more special.”

While cleaning the house or washing dishes may seem like mundane tasks, they are the building blocks of a happy home. They are the first lessons we teach our children, often accompanied by memories of soap suds fights with siblings or lively post-dinner chats. Clean spaces not only promote physical wellbeing but also contribute to our mental and emotional health, making them more than just chores. “Some weeks I don’t have much or sometimes nothing at all to eat or can’t afford cleaning products or self cleansing products. But I can get most general products from Foodbank.”

We can all agree how good it feels to have freshly washed hair. But for many Aussies, essentials like shampoo and conditioner are out of reach. These products are about more than hygiene — they help restore dignity, confidence and a sense of normal. This matters even more when there are children in the household. “I could not afford many items on my shopping list. Meat, fruit and vegetables were always a concern, carefully budgeted. Biscuits and treats were rare as well as many personal items. To discover Foodbank locally is such truly a Godsend. I have never been so content and eaten so well, a big thank you.”

Imagine the worry of not knowing if you can find toilet paper. For many of us, it was a brief experience during the panic buying of the pandemic. But for people struggling right now, this can be a daily stress: “Can I afford toilet paper this week?” “Trying to maintain a house on just a disability pension is difficult and with rising costs, it’s made life just a little bit easier having Foodbank as a backup to get the essentials.”

When budgets are tight, self-care products often get cut from the shopping list. Moisturisers, cleansers, and other products are not luxuries—they are essential for many men, women, teenagers, and children facing tough times. Everyone deserves healthy skin. It impacts confidence and can significantly affect those already struggling to pay the bills. That’s why we partner with companies to ensure a regular supply of products for our charities to offer their communities. “I am a pensioner and renting. I have little left out of my pension for food and personal things. I am so glad I found out about Foodbank. It has helped me so much and I thank you very much.”