Hoogkarspel menstrual cabinet is growing at the seams: “A lot of silent poverty”

It has been a year and a half since she started a mini-library, De Anemone, at home. At the front door under the roof are several racks and chests with books that people can borrow and exchange for free. Since January, the cupboard with menstrual products has been added.

It is therefore the first and only place in Hoogkarspel. “First I went to see if there was anything in the area, but here in the village there was nothing yet. And if you look around and ask around, there is enough quiet poverty. And then you want to help people anyway. That’s how I am too raised: where you can, you help another.”

Overwhelmed

The range of menstrual products expanded rapidly. Simone: “Shampoo, toothpaste, cleaning products.” She is overwhelmed by all the generous gifts, which she does not only receive from the Poverty Fund. Especially close by.

“I am very grateful and surprised. People who approach me in the store with the question if they can give me something. It is brought over or there is suddenly a bag with things in front of the door†

The cabinet is protected from view. People can therefore collect their belongings anonymously. “It is used a lot. Also people who send a message and prefer to pick it up directly at my door.” There are even requests coming from further down the road. “They then ask if I can bring it. I would love to do that, but I don’t have a car. So refer them to another point.”

Need a bigger closet

Due to the expanding range and the generous donations, the menstrual cabinet is growing out of its seams. “These are now two old egg crates. It would be nice to have more space, so that it remains clear and I can store more products in it.”

Simone on Facebook a call who could help her get a new wardrobe. “Preferably one step higher and made of good material that is weather resistant.”

Simone knows enough people in the area with a small wallet and hopes to be able to support them for a long time to come. “I also had to live on little money myself, so you know what that is like. Maybe you take a step harder.”

More and more menstrual cabinets are also appearing in other places in the region. In Horn several can be found at neighborhood centers and also in Wognum women can go.