Posted on September 5, 2023

During my time at The Hartford Project, I witnessed firsthand the challenges many residents face in meeting their basic hygiene needs. While serving the community, I met individuals who lacked access to everyday essentials like soap, toothpaste, and deodorant—items many of us take for granted.

Hartford, like many cities, struggles with health disparities that disproportionately affect underserved populations. Without proper hygiene, people are more vulnerable to illness, infections, and social stigma, which can impact their overall well-being. Seeing this need inspired me to take action beyond just a week of service. It reinforced my belief that hygiene is not a luxury but a necessity, and that addressing these gaps is a crucial step toward improving public health.

Through service projects and community outreach, I saw how something as simple as a hygiene kit could make a difference. Whether distributing supplies or engaging in conversations, I realized that small acts of kindness can restore dignity and hope. My experience at The Hartford Project strengthened my commitment to ensuring basic health resources are accessible to all and deepened my passion for community-based solutions in healthcare.