A Northumberland-based charity is making a meaningful difference by focusing on something simple and often overlooked access to basic hygiene.
The Rose Quest, founded by Rose Wilton, supports residents experiencing hardship by providing essential items like toothbrushes, deodorant, shampoo and personal care kits.
Rose Wilton, founder of RoseQuest, says:
The organization distributes those items in several ways; directly to individuals experiencing homelessness, through schools supporting students in need, and by supplying community partners like food banks and social service agencies.
Wilton says that support helps other organizations stay focused on their primary mandates.
Programs include a 24-7 community cupboard in Port Hope, stocked with personal care items, along with school-based support that can help dozens of students per school throughout the year.
The Rose Quest also provides crisis relief for individuals dealing with situations like house fires or serious illness, helping remove one more layer of stress during difficult times.
Looking ahead, the organization is working toward an ambitious goal: Ontario’s first hygiene centre.
Wilton explains.
Wilton says the space would expand access, improve efficiency and create opportunities for education and new programs.
In the meantime, the community is invited to take part in upcoming fundraising events. The first is a family-friendly screening of The Swan Princess that will take place April 25 at noon at Rainbow Cinemas in Cobourg – who’ve graciously made their facility available for the event. Costumes are encouraged and activities are planned as well.
A second event, Singing for Dignity, is set for May 6 at Trinity United Church. Tickets: $20 in advance or $25 at the door ($5 for children 12 years and under). Tickets can be purchased at the door or from choir members – www.abzolutelychoir.ca
Wilton says whether through donations, volunteering or simply showing up, every contribution helps ensure people in the community have access to the basics they need to feel healthy, confident and supported.
To learn more, including info on donations and volunteering, visit them at The Rose Quest.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
