Empowering Students with Essential Hygiene Supplies

September 30, 2024 - Rotary Club of PagoPago (RCPP) presented Emergency Hygiene supplies to all 12 public and private high schools across the territory of American Samoa. This initiative is part of the club's long-running project aimed at ensuring that every student has access to essential hygiene supplies; promoting health and readiness for learning.

Students & Advisors Appreciate the Gifts

In a presentation held at the Department of Youth & Women's Affairs gymnasium in Tafuna, Rotarians met with representatives of each school to explain the project. Each high school received a sturdy metal cabinet stocked with a variety of hygiene products, including: toothbrushes, toothpaste,feminine hygiene items,wipes, deodorant, band-aids, etc.

RCPP Community Services Chair Justin Tuiasosopo explained, "These items are crucial for students who may arrive at school without the necessary supplies, ensuring they can attend classes with confidence and dignity."

Justin explains the hygiene supply program.

Providing these hygiene cabinets was the club's answer to a critical need within the schools. Access to basic hygiene products can significantly impact a student’s ability to focus and participate fully in their education. This initiative not only supports individual students but also fosters a healthier, more inclusive school environment.

Leone High School's Elizabeth Bartley said, "Thank you so much, Rotary. This is a much needed donation. Some of us teachers spend our own money to provide these products for our kids. We are grateful for your help. This is huge. God Bless Rotary."

RCPP President Moeroa Hardman said, "We believe that every student deserves the opportunity to succeed, and access to essential hygiene supplies is a vital part of that success. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our members, partners, and supporters who have made this project possible. Together, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of our students and building a brighter future for our community."

Justin added more about the history of the project, “Tafuna High School Brown Sister club under the leadership of Eileen Iosefo and Marcella Fitisone started this hygiene pantry initiative in 2021 in their classroom to provide a safe space for students to receive emergency hygiene products. Hygiene supplies needs were on top of the list of issues faced by high school students because some of these basic necessities can be costly to a lot of students. Today, Rotary is expanding that pantry from one high school to all high schools so every student can have access to emergency hygiene supplies.”

Jackie and Moe presenting supplies.

After a survey of the schools earlier in the year, the club planned for the supplies to last for one full school year. Rotarians will guage interest in restocking the cabinets as one of its annual projects. If you would like to contribute money or supplies to this initiative, see the RCPP donation page.