Handbags of support for women in need

A Walsall-based women’s project has received a donation of personalised handbags from students at Walsall College.

18 handbags were filled with toiletries, and cosmetics as a way of showing solidarity with residents at Manor Women’s Project – a local drug addiction treatment centre.

“These are handbags of dignity which the students were inspired to put together after talking about period poverty in class,” explained Jo Parton, Curriculum Manager for Health and Public Services. “Everyone recognised how difficult it might be for young girls and women to access sanitary and bathroom items if they having personal difficulties.

“They wanted each resident to receive a substantial supply of items as a way of reassuring them that there are people out there who are thinking of them and wish them well.”

The early years students also attached a nametag with an inspirational message to each handbag.

Alison Cattell, Project Director at Manor Womens Project added: “This gesture from the college means a great deal to our residents. It’s a way for them to feel valued and know that their lives have purpose. It also inspires them to give something back to the community in future.”