Garden State Times

The Camden County Library System is seeking donations for its personal care pantries, which are available at all branches across the county. These pantries provide free hygiene and personal care items such as socks, shampoo, soap, deodorant, and menstrual products to residents in need.

Since its inception in 2020, the program has grown significantly. In the past year alone, the care pantries have distributed over 14,000 items to residents, including more than 4,000 pairs of socks.

“The library has always been more than just a place to check out books; it is a pillar of our community,” stated Commissioner Melinda Kane, liaison to the Camden County Library System. “This program has grown exponentially, and we are excited to now be accepting donations from our neighbors to keep this critical resource up and running. Please consider donating as it can make a life-changing impact on someone in need.”

Donations must be new and unopened. The library is currently accepting various items such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, toothpaste, toothbrushes, lip balm, combs, deodorant, maxi pads, tampons, panty liners, cleansing wipes, adult diapers, sunscreen, socks for adults and children alike along with rain ponchos and hand warmers among others.

“We are committed to supporting the well-being of our community members and advancing the common good,” said Linda Devlin, director of the Camden County Library System. “By offering these essential items we hope to reduce barriers and empower individuals to thrive aligning with the library’s core value of social responsibility.”

Donations can be delivered to the M. Allan Vogelson Branch located at 203 Laurel Road in Voorhees Township. For further information on how to contribute to the personal care pantries please visit camdencountylibrary.org.