The Rosewood and District Support Centre says it has responded to community need, supporting people in hardship by establishing the Community Dignity Box in Walloon.
The initiative was launched on 4th March at the monthly Community Pop-Up Hub. Attendees were welcomed with a free coffee van and freshly baked biscuits provided by the Community Food Project. The launch gave community members a chance to see the box, meet volunteers, and learn about how the program supports local families.
The Community Dignity Box provides free essential personal care items that can be accessed discreetly by anyone in the community who may need them. The box includes a range of items for both men and women, including toiletries, hygiene products, and menstrual care items.
The launch also coincided with International Women’s Day, highlighting the importance of addressing issues such as period poverty and access to essential hygiene products for women and girls.
“We are really excited to bring Dignity Boxes to the communities we support. We want to remove as many barriers for our community members as we can,” said Donna, General Manager of the Rosewood and District Support Centre.
“Personal hygiene products are not luxuries. They are basic essentials that help people feel confident and cared for,” she said.
Community Project Worker Tia Lancaster thanked local organisations and individuals donating items to help stock the boxes.
“Caring for our community starts with meeting the simplest needs. A bar of soap, a pad, a toothbrush — small items that restore dignity,” she said.
Local businesses Walloon Dental and Foote’s Pharmacy Walloon offered their support and are helping keep the Walloon Community Dignity Box stocked for community members who may need it. Members of the Rosewood Craft And Quilters group also contributed, providing handmade bags for the donated dental items. Donations of personal care items can be made at Foote’s Pharmacy Walloon.
Community Services Worker Tracey said the Community Dignity Boxes would add dignity by letting people access what they need when they need it.
Lisa Noonan, Principal of Walloon State School, said the initiative reflected strong local community spirit.
“The Community Dignity Box is a beautiful example of what happens when compassion meets action. Having this initiative right beside our school means our families can access essential items with dignity, quietly and respectfully,” she said.
The Community Dignity Box program will expand further, with a launch planned in Rosewood later in March.
Community members are encouraged to help maintain the space and ensure the box remains clean, respected and available for those who need it. Donations will help keep the initiative running and boxes stocked.
