Dearborn library offers 'hygiene locker' for residents' basic needs

Dearborn residents can pick up free basic health amenities at a “hygienic locker” at Esper Branch Library on West Warren Avenue.

The locker offers items including toothbrushes, toothpaste, bandages, soap and menstrual supplies. Most items were purchased with funds from Friends of the Library Dearborn. The locker will be available to visitors during regular hours at the library while supplies last.

"Community members are encouraged to take only what they need from the locker to ensure others who may need items also have the chance to benefit," a release from the library said.

“We are thrilled to be able to offer essential health resources through the new hygiene locker program at the Esper Branch with support from FOLD," said Betty Adams, the library's director. "We hope this program will bring welcomed relief to our neighbors who need it.”

In coordination with the Dearborn Department of Public Health, the locker will carry QR codes linking visitors to websites for local clinics, charitable organizations and other organizations that can help with housing, transportation and mental health resources, according to the release.

"Access to hygiene is a right, not a privilege," said Ali Abazeed, chief public health officer and director of the Department of Public Health, in the release. "Through this initiative, we're tackling health inequities head-on, ensuring everyone in Dearborn has what they need to live with dignity.

"Big thanks to our community and the Dearborn Public Library for turning this vision into reality. Every soap bar, every toothbrush we provide, is a step towards health equity and dignity for all in Dearborn — proving that together, we can make a profound difference.”

In 2022, the Dearborn Public Health Department launched the city’s first initiative to supply free menstrual roducts at Dearborn high schools. Through that initiative, over 5,000 sanitary napkins were provided for distribution across three high schools.  

Dearborn residents receive free COVID-19 tests through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and free KN95 masks through the Wayne County Public Health Department, both available at all library branches. The Dearborn Public Library also provides information and up-to-date health resources through its physical and digital sites.

Those interested in donating materials for the hygiene locker or supporting the Public Library may visit DearbornLibrary.org or contact the Esper Branch at (313) 943-4096.

mjohnson@detroitnews.com

@_myeshajohnson