By Stacy Rogers
Special to The Post

Back in 2018, members of the East Oakland-Hayward Section of the National Council of Negro Women were deeply moved after learning that, as part of sexual assault investigations, female victims often had their underwear retained as evidence and were sent home without their personal belongings.

The realization that these survivors had not only endured the trauma of assault but were also left without essential undergarments prompted the Section, consisting of more than 60 members, to take action.

In response, the “Panty Pantry” initiative was established to provide new underwear to women and girls who are survivors of sexual assault, human trafficking, domestic abuse, and homelessness.

For more than six years, the East Oakland-Hayward Section of NCNW has collected and donated thousands of pairs of underwear to organizations offering direct services to these vulnerable populations. Most recently, the Section is arranging panty donations to victims of the devastating Southern California firestorms.

The Panty Pantry is one of the major initiatives hosted by the East Oakland-Hayward Section.  Founded by Mary McLeod Bethune 90 years ago, NCNW, is one of the nation’s oldest and most esteemed African American women’s organizations.  The East Oakland-Hayward is one of more than 300 community- based sections throughout the United States.  There are ten Sections of NCNW here in Northern California.

The Section welcomes donations to the Panty Pantry, and collections occur year- round, with ongoing efforts to ensure that those in need receive the support they deserve. To learn more about the Panty Pantry, or to contribute or make donations, please contact the East Oakland-Hayward Section of NCNW at eohncnw.org or call them at 510-253-2033.

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