Youth Services System, Inc ESMH coordinators have been awarded a grant from the Ann Sonneborn Charitable Foundation dedicated to expanding services for students across local school districts. This initiative aims to meet an important need by ensuring that students have access to basic hygiene products, helping them feel more confident, and comfortable every day. This grant funding will be used to stock hygiene closets throughout the region with items such as shampoo, deodorant, soap, toothpaste, and other personal care items. By addressing these basic needs, the ESMH team continues to promote not only physical well-being but also emotional health and self-esteem among students.
“Meeting students basic needs is a huge part of supporting their overall mental health and school success, with access to these supplies it can help reduce student stress, improve attendance and help create a more positive school experience for every student. I also leave Wildcat Needs forms outside of my office on my hygiene cart if a student needs any resources, they fill out the form and slide it under my door. This helps me identify students who may need extra support.” – Miss Lainey ESMH at Wheeling Middle School in Ohio County.
Providing something as simple as hygiene products, the YSS ESMH programs are making a meaningful difference in the daily lives of students- reminding them that they are seen, supported, and cared for.