Coates Cabinet: Meeting essential hygiene needs on Orcas Island

Basic hygiene products are fundamental to health and dignity, yet many struggle to afford essential items like soap, shampoo, deodorant, and laundry soap. The Orcas Community Resource Center addresses this need through our Coates Cabinet hygiene bank, ensuring community members have access to vital personal care items. By removing financial barriers to these necessities, together we help create a more equitable and healthier community.

Good hygiene practices, particularly handwashing, are crucial for preventing the spread of illness and maintaining public health. This is especially important during winter months when diseases spread more readily. As December marks National Handwashing Month, we’re reminded that access to basic hygiene supplies—something many take for granted—can significantly impact community wellness. Regular access to personal care items not only prevents illness but also supports mental well-being and social confidence.

The Resource Center has expanded its services through several initiatives:

• Operating the Coates Cabinet hygiene bank weekly, which served a record number of households in November

• Advocating for Installation of a soap dispenser at the Eastsound shower facilities through local partnerships

• Providing shower tokens and towels (when available) for those who need them

• Working with community partners to identify and address gaps in hygiene accessibility

These services are particularly important for community members experiencing housing insecurity. Providing access to basic hygiene products helps maintain personal dignity and well-being. The Resource Center recognizes this is about more than cleanliness—it’s about equipping people with the supplies needed to participate fully in community life with confidence.

One program participant recently shared, “Thanks to Coates Cabinet, I can provide the essentials for my family during challenging times. It’s truly a blessing to have this support here on Orcas”

You can support this essential program during the 2024 GiveOrcas campaign, running December 3rd-12th with a donation here: https://oicf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/grant?grant_id=35675&blm_aid=0. In addition, the Resource Center will be hosting a table at the Village Green Tree Lighting from 4-7pm on Friday, December 6th. Stop by and make a GiveOrcas donation or drop off one or more new hygiene items. Our most requested items:

• laundry pods

• dish soap

• baby wipes

• toothpaste

• Kleenex

• toilet paper

• paper towels

Your contributions help ensure that no one in our community goes without necessary personal care items during the challenging winter months and beyond. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a meaningful difference in our neighbors’ lives and strengthens the fabric of our island community. Stay tuned for more ways to get involved!

The Orcas Community Resource Center’s mission is to foster a healthy community by connecting Orcas Islanders with the services needed to thrive and achieve equitable well-being. We’re here to help! If you’d like to learn more about our services, please contact us.