In every community, dignity matters.
As the cost of living continues to rise and pressure builds on local households, even the most basic hygiene essentials can become difficult to afford. But in Rosewood and Walloon, a compassionate new initiative is helping to restore dignity, choice, and confidence for anyone doing it tough.
The Rosewood and District Support Centre, through the Rosewood Community Centre, is introducing Community Dignity Boxes – accessible stations stocked with free hygiene items for anyone who needs them, no questions asked.
The first Dignity Box will be launched in Walloon on Wednesday 4th March, aligning with International Women’s Day, at the Walloon Community Pop‑Up Hub at the CWA hall.
The dignity boxes are coming to our community to help those people who may be struggling with the cost of essential hygiene needs.”
said Tia Lancaster, community project worker, Rosewood.
These boxes reflect RADSC’s ongoing commitment to offering support that is easy to access, stigma‑free, and available at the moment people need it most.
“We already provide emergency relief for individuals and families at the Rosewood Community Centre for those living in Rosewood and surrounding areas, including Walloon throughout the week. But although we try to be available as much as possible to support those who need a little extra help, the Dignity Boxes will add a little extra dignity by letting people access what they need when they need it.” said Tracey, an individual Support Worker.
The initiative also aims to reduce shame around accessing essential hygiene items, particularly period products, and ensure people feel supported, not judged.
“We don’t want people to feel shame when they need to access these dignity hygiene items. We care about our community members and don’t want our women and girls to continue to experience period poverty. Hygiene products should not be seen as a luxury but rather essential items that help maintain peoples dignity.” said Tia.
Although the launch falls on International Women’s Day, the Community Dignity Box will stock a wide range of essentials for everyone, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, soap and more.
RADSC is also exploring partnerships with local businesses, with promising support already emerging. Rosewood Dental has stepped up to supply dental hygiene items, helping ensure the boxes remain well‑stocked and sustainable into the future. Walloon Dental Surgery will also contribute dental care packs for distribution throughout the Walloon community.
“We are really excited to bring these Dignity Box’s to our community. We want to remove as many barriers to support for our community members as we can. We hope that anyone in need of support contact the Rosewood Community Centre and find out what supports can be offered.” said Donna Hanlon, General Manager for RADS.
There will be a welcoming community launch in Walloon on 4th March, from 7.30am to 11.30am at the CWA.
A coffee van will serve free coffee, and the Community Food Project will be offering freshly baked biscuits. Community project coordinator, Skye, from the Community Food Project will be at the event.
A Rosewood launch will follow.
More details, including the location and event information, will be shared soon.
