Create a Care Closet: Support Students with Vegan and Cruelty-Free Essentials

Many students face a variety of stresses from home life, school, and social pressures, and they may feel embarrassed or hesitant to ask for the things they need. A care closet can be a discreet source of comfort and privacy, providing essential personal care items that help students feel cared for and valued. By creating a care closet (or care crate if you have limited space), you’re not only supporting their physical needs but also fostering a sense of belonging and emotional well-being in your classroom.

Create your own care closet stocked full of vegan, cruelty-free supplies that are kind to students and animals. Get started by including things like:

Toothpaste

Try cruelty-free brands like Hello, The Humble Co., or Jason Natural Cosmetics!

Deodorant

Try cruelty-free brands like CRYSTAL, Tom’s of Maine, and Schmidt’s Naturals!

Face Wipes

Try cruelty-free brands like YesTo, Pacifica, Desert Essence, and Alba Botanica!

Lip Balm

Skip the beeswax with cruelty-free brands like Hurraw!, Sun Bum, and Eco Lips “Bee Free” varieties!

Feminine Care Products

Try cruelty-free brands like Natracare, The Honey Pot, and Seventh Generation!

Snacks

For students facing food insecurity at home, providing a filling, vegan snack to help meet their basic needs can make a big impact. Try some filling (and shelf-stable) options like GoMacro Organic Vegan Protein Bars, Hippeas Organic Chickpea Puffs, or Ripple Vegan Protein Shakes.

These items can make a big difference for students who might be facing challenging situations at home. By providing them with essential personal care items, you’re helping them feel cared for and valued. To get started, consider reaching out to parents, your PTA, community members, and your school wellness committee if your school has one for donations. Their support can help ensure your care closet is well-stocked and sustainable, providing ongoing assistance to students in need.

Looking for more ideas for your kind classroom? Sign up for TeachKind emails!