PALS have begun preparing for their annual Hygiene Drive this year to collect necessities for those who cannot afford them. From Feb. 3 through Feb. 13, the PALS will set up boxes in each classroom for students to donate hygiene supplies.

“We’re collecting bars of soap, deodorant, small bottles of shampoo and conditioner and body wash, toothbrushes along with toothpaste, and any other toiletries,” PALS member senior Devin Campbell said.

Fellow PALS member senior Lauren Chadwick looks forward to engaging with her community through this small act of kindness.

“We are collecting items for people who need basic items such as toothbrushes and toothpaste and simple things for people who don’t have them,” Chadwick said. “We want to help the less fortunate and people in need.”

According to Campbell, the drive isn’t just for collecting items to give to those who are in need.

“The purpose of it is to raise awareness of the importance of healthcare for everybody. No matter how small the donation, it can make a world of difference,” Campbell said.

Chadwick said the drive reaches out to the local community as well as students.

“It’s been a tradition that’s been going on for awhile but personally we want to take it a step beyond,” Chadwick said. “We want to help the people in our community and people at Plano who need our help, so we want to keep the tradition going.”

The PALS have started preparing for the event by putting boxes together and making posters to promote it. There may also be a prize for the class that collects the most donations. According to Chadwick, the highlight of the Hygiene Drive is the ability to assist others.

“The best part is not only coming together in the PALS organization but the feeling of helping other people,” Chadwick said. “It makes you feel good knowing that someone is going to be helped by these small gestures by someone just bringing in toothpaste.”