Campus community joins forces to support students in need
In its ongoing effort to remove barriers to student success, the Citrus College Basic Needs program recently collected deodorant, body wash, shampoo and other personal care items to help restock the campus food pantry.
The inaugural Hygiene for Hope toiletry drive took place from March 4-21. During this period, students, employees and visitors were encouraged to drop off toiletry items at the Campus Center.
"Every day, we see students who are often overlooked and are in need of basic hygiene, food and financial help," said Alexis Silva, basic needs coordinator. "The toiletries collected during the drive will support students who face challenges and need access to essential hygiene items."
As of March 21, the basic needs team had collected more than 400 items. One particularly notable contribution was a large number of toothbrushes and toothpaste tubes from the college's dental hygiene program.
"It has been wonderful to see the campus community come together to support this cause," Silva said.
Hygiene for Hope is one of several ways the basic needs team supports Citrus College students. The program also hosts a Scare Away Hunger food drive each fall, facilitates monthly visits from the mobile food pantry, promotes CalFresh assistance and more.
"We hope the toiletry drive's impact on the campus community helps raise awareness about the basic needs of individuals facing financial hardships or experiencing homelessness," Silva said. "Everyone deserves access to basic hygiene products, so being able to provide that to students and make an impact on their lives is a great feeling."
"We would like to thank everyone who donated," Silva added. "Your contributions have been greatly appreciated and have made a significant difference."
This article originally appeared in the April 2025 edition of the Citrus View.