The Carnival Charity has supported a small local charity called Frome Refresh, by purchasing 20 packs of toiletries.
These packs contain shampoo, shower gel, deodorant, flannels, brushes and combs for both boys and girls, plus sanitary towels. Portway Dental Practice sponsors toothpaste and toothbrushes.
The group explains, “The project began in Trowbridge, run by West Wilts Vineyard Church and a group of us living in Frome decided to replicate it for our own town. For us, this is about our Christianity responding to a local need and impacting our community.
“The packs of toiletries are given to Frome College and Oakfield and Selwood Academies, where family workers pass them on to vulnerable youngsters from disadvantaged families. This unique project is helping young people who, through no fault of their own, do not have access to basic toiletries.
“Families struggling to put food on the table often cannot afford to buy these daily essentials. We are seeing the self-esteem and confidence of the recipients grow as they have the products to look after themselves. They then learn, behave and interact better as a result. School attendance of girls who have to miss school as a result of not having sanitary protection is improving.
“We have been running this project on an adhoc basis for the past year and are now raising awareness in the town to encourage the marvellous people of Frome to get involved and help provide the toiletries we need.
“There is a permanent collection box at Frome Town Hall, at the main reception. Unwanted Christmas and birthday toiletries are welcome too – we like to pack in extra treats when we have them.
“Find us on Facebook @Frome Refresh; listen to the podcast from our radio debut on Frome FM, “All about Frome” on 9th May. Contact Lesley Hooper, hoops5151@yahoo.co.uk
“Thank you for helping us to help young people in Frome refresh their lives.”