In a bid to address hygiene poverty in the UK, Tesco has generously contributed over 33,000 children’s toothbrushes and 6,000 tubes of toothpaste for kids to various charitable organizations.
A recent study by the charity In Kind Direct revealed that a significant 17% of UK adults, or one in six, are grappling with hygiene poverty. Additionally, the research highlighted that 6% of adults reported foregoing a toothbrush in the last six months due to financial constraints.
In response to these alarming findings, Tesco collaborated with four of its suppliers—Unilever, Kimberley Clark, Essity, and Haleon—partnering with In Kind Direct to extend support to those most in need.
From August 23rd to October 3rd, the four manufacturers pledged to donate one product to In Kind Direct for every two products purchased by Tesco customers, either in-store or online. This initiative resulted in a substantial number of products being contributed, all of which will be distributed by In Kind Direct to its network of over 6,000 charitable organizations operating as frontline support for families within local communities.
To further bolster this commendable campaign, Tesco has made an additional donation of 33,000 toothbrushes and 6,000 tubes of children’s toothpaste.
Rosanne Gray, CEO at In Kind Direct, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Making tough choices every day between food, personal hygiene products, and rent is the reality for far too many people. We are delighted to be working alongside Tesco and four brilliant manufacturers; Essity, Haleon, Kimberly Clark, and Unilever to help tackle hygiene poverty. We’re looking forward to seeing the impact this partnership will have in communities across the UK.”
Claire De Silva, Head of Community at Tesco, emphasized the importance of supporting communities in need, stating, “It’s really important to us that we are able to support even more people in our communities to get essential items. Our work with our suppliers and In Kind Direct helps get vital support to where it is needed the most.”
