Stuart Hosts ‘Back to School’ Women’s Supply Drive

COLLINSVILLE, Ill. – In order to prepare women and girls for the back to school season, state Rep. Katie Stuart, D-Edwardsville, is collaborating with the Caseyville Public Library to collect feminine hygiene products. The drive will be held through the months of August and September. There will be a donation drop off box at Stuart’s constituent services office, located at 2105 Vandalia St., Unit #16 in Collinsville, as well as at the Caseyville Public Library at 419 S 2nd Street in Caseyville.

“Although it is so important to prepare our school children with pencils, folders, and paper, it seems as though we are overlooking the fact that some school aged girls in our community are attending school without tampons or pads,” said Stuart. “After talking with staff at the Caseyville Public Library, they told me that this need in their community goes beyond girls and affects women who have little access to the supplies they need to maintain their health.”

Stuart’s drive will go from the beginning of August until the last day of September.  Women’s supplies can include everything from tampons, pads, soap and other hygiene provisions.  All donated materials will be given to the Caseyville Public Library to distribute free of cost to those in need.

“Residents know that the Public Library provides reading materials, computer access, local history and more. But to the individuals that are homeless, leaving a domestic violence situation, or experiencing other transitions in their lives – the local library is a refuge,” said Ashley Stewart, the librarian at Caseyville Public Library. “Starting in September, the restrooms at the Caseyville Public Library will be stocked with donated personal hygiene products and feminine products. I want the community to continue to view the Public Library, not only as a location to gain access to numerous resources, but also as a place where they can feel safe and respected.”