Maria Kelly is tackling a hidden hygiene problem that she said most people don’t even know exists. This weekend, her initiative, “We are She, She is Me,” is holding a donation drive to collect essential hygiene products to help women feel a sense of dignity.
The drive will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at three locations: Saint Pius X (3418 KY 144), New Life Church (400 Crabtree Avenue), and First Presbyterian Church (1328 Griffith Avenue).
While things like toothpaste are appreciated, Kelly stressed the critical need for pads, tampons, diapers, and baby wipes.
“We need things that make women feel good about themselves,” she said. “We can’t ask women to feel confident if their dignity is compromised.”
For Kelly, this is not a personal quest for recognition.
“This is a community involvement,” she said. “I don’t want any money, I don’t want any recognition. I just want to solve a community problem.”
The donations will be distributed to local schools and women’s shelters, with plans to also get the products into parks. Kelly has made it clear that any organization serving women can reach out to her.
“If you are in need of those items, you can call me at 270-925-6321,” she said. “Text me, we will get those products to you and your ladies.”
She emphasized the importance of women supporting other women, saying the issue affects everyone, regardless of their financial situation.
This weekend’s event is just the beginning.
“We hope it will be ongoing,” Kelly said. “We don’t know where it’s going to go. We are trusting God. We saw a need and we reacted. God willing, we won’t ever have to do this again because we will all come on board and realize that as women, we have to help each other. How can you be strong without your sister being strong, too?”
