News

Hygiene machine makes youth club kids feel confident and supported

By Lightning Reports, Published: June 14, 2026

The Boys & Girls Club of Henderson County has announced a new partnership with Healthy Blue, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina’s Medicaid Managed Care plan, to support the health and well-being of local youth.

Through this partnership, a hygiene vending machine has been installed in the club’s Middle School & Teen Center, providing free, on-site access to essential hygiene products for youth who need them most. The initiative is designed to remove barriers and ensure that every young person who walks through the club’s doors feels confident and supported.

Each day, an average of 350 youth are served by the club. By addressing basic needs like hygiene, the organization continues to advance its mission of supporting the whole child in mind, body and soul.

“This is a simple but powerful resource for our kids,” club CEO Kent Parent said. “Whether they’ve forgotten something or don’t have access at home, they can come up, grab what they need, and go with no questions asked. It removes potential moments of embarrassment and gives them a sense of independence while making sure they have what they need to take care of themselves.”

“At Healthy Blue, we understand that much of health happens outside the doctor’s office,” Healthy Blue CEO Angela Boykin said. “This collaboration reflects Healthy Blue’s commitment to supporting North Carolina communities and helping young people feel confident, supported, and ready to succeed. We’re proud to work with organizations across North Carolina creating healthier environments for youth and families.”

The hygiene vending machine complements the club’s existing programming, including SMART Girls and Passport to Manhood, which are designed to help young people build confidence, make healthy choices and grow into successful, healthy men and women.

In addition to meeting immediate needs, the resource also strengthens relationships between youth and staff.