Clean clothes and access to hygiene essentials have been shown to positively impact school attendance, academic performance and self-esteem.1,2 But among families with lower incomes, affording basic household goods can be challenging. According to Feeding America, 34% of families with low incomes experiences challenges to afford basic household items and many reported cutting back on food to pay for household goods.3
To help kids access the hygiene supplies they need, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Washington teamed up with Seattle Seahawks safety Julian Love to bring laundry facilities and hygiene essentials to three locations across the Bellevue community.
The initiative, called Love’s Huddle, includes a washing machine, dryer, and $3,000 in hygiene supplies. Love’s Huddle is located at the Boys & Girls Club’s Lake Hills Clubhouse, Spiritwood Manor Clubhouse and at Garfield High School. To celebrate the launch, Julian surprised local teens with a visit at the Lake Hills Clubhouse. Julian spoke about channeling their energy toward future success and following their dreams.
Addressing hygiene essentials not only meets immediate needs, but also sets children up for long-term success. Through this donation, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Washington and Love are helping to ensure that kids at each of these three locations have what they need to support their health and self-confidence in their everyday lives.
"Many Bellevue families struggle to afford the basic necessities, so the new washers, dryers and hygiene supplies from UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Washington and Julian Love can help ensure kids have the resources they need to reach their full potential.” – Christine Lessard; Boys & Girls Club of Bellevue
This collaboration is part of UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Washington’s broader efforts to support children’s health and development in local communities. The health plan has a long-standing relationship with Boys & Girls Clubs across Washington State. Their annual support includes the King County Chapter’s summer Field Day event at the University of Washington’s Husky Stadium and funding for mental health and afterschool programs at various clubhouses. For more information about UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Washington, visit UHCCP.com/WA.