By Liz Nolan, Contributing Writer
Photo/submitted
Northborough – The Biden-Harris Presidential Inaugural Committee held a National Day of Service to celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. on Jan. 18. It was an opportunity for people across the country to come together to support communities. Northborough resident Marile Borden took the opportunity to support the Wayland-based organization, Dignity Matters.
Dignity Matters is a nonprofit organization that collects, purchases and supplies feminine hygiene products, bras and underwear to women and girls who are homeless or disadvantaged.
Borden was introduced to the organization by a friend. She was surprised and impressed by their mission.
“The ability to purchase feminine products is something that so many of us take for granted,” she said. “While we often think about those struggling with food insecurity, I had never considered the fact that so many women are faced with having to choose between buying food or taking care of their other basic, biological needs.”
What many may not know is that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly Food Stamps, will cover the cost of candy, but not feminine products.
Borden held a successful collection from Jan. 15-18. She collected feminine hygiene products as well as underwear and bras. The number of items she delivered to the Framingham Dignity Matters warehouse was “too many to count.” It all benefits women and girls to help them stay healthy, regain self-confidence, and live with basic dignity.
Dignity Matters assists programs across the state including food pantries, public schools, domestic violence shelters, and homeless shelters. All donations benefit women in Massachusetts.
The pandemic has affected the economy, and the lives of many have greatly changed. The demand for assistance has increased.
Borden said that before COVID-19, Dignity Matters served 4,000 women each month. Since the spring, that number has grown to 8,500.
“I knew that their needs had grown due to the impact of COVID and increasing joblessness,” she said. “I knew it was a cause that the Northborough community would embrace.”
Borden would like to plan another drive within the next 3-6 months, or if she hears that they have a particularly pressing need.
The organization accepts online donations or through the mail at Dignity Matters, PO Box 72, Wayland, MA 01778. If you are interested in hosting a product donation drive, email [email protected] for more information. Corporate partners are always welcomed.
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