Superdrug has recently launched a “beauty bank” donation bin in their Frome store.
All hygiene and sanitary items placed in the bin will find their way to Frome Refresh, which is a small, grass roots initiative working with Frome schools to provide essential toiletries to disadvantaged youngsters.
Frome Refresh was contacted by one of the founders of Beauty Banks last summer, following an article here, in the Frome Times, about the ongoing work of the project. Beauty Banks was about to run a pilot drop off point at Superdrug in Manchester. Following the success there, the Frome Superdrug has now joined in and shoppers can donate items bought in the store, by placing them in the pink Beauty Banks bin.
Frome Refresh was started by a group of Christians who are part of West Wilts Vineyard Church in Trowbridge and who live in Frome. They say, “Everything we collect stays in Frome for the benefit of our own local youngsters. We are thrilled to have spearheaded this initiative, which has now become very much a community project.
“Frome Refresh has been supporting just over 100 local young people, who, through no fault of their own, find themselves in the dire situation of not having access to items that most of us take for granted.
“In recent months, Frome Refresh has benefitted from generous financial contributions from Frome Rotary, Standerwick, Berkley & Beckington W.I, Frome Independent Market, that enable us to make sure each young person receives their regular pack of toiletries.
“Many items are donated by the marvellous people of Frome, via our drop off points at Frome Town Hall and Cooper & Tanner. Part 2 hair salon was also involved receiving unwanted Christmas gifts for us during January, as we ran our “Regift to Refresh” campaign. Local groups such as Gina’s Body Basics and the Orchardleigh Ladies Golf Team and St Catharine’s Church have collected toiletries for us too. Frome Refresh has grown, largely by word of mouth and the sharing of our Facebook page: @Frome Refresh.
“We can pass on any unopened toiletries, for both boys and girls. Our shortage items now are boys hair/bodywash and boy’s anti-perspirant; kids shower gel and kids shampoo, and sanitary pads. (We can’t pass tampons to schools, but the packs of pads – yes please! Razors are another “no go” unfortunately.)
“A big shout out to ALL those in Frome who have helped us one way or another. We couldn’t do this without you.”#fearfullyandwonderfullymade #marvellousfrome