A North End ministry is setting up a takeout window so that their neighbours can access affordable toilet paper.

Last week Inner City Youth Alive (ICYA) surveyed how severe the need for toilet paper was in the North End community. The Facebook results were unanimous in saying it is hard to find and in very short supply.

“I spoke with a mom in our community who told me that she asked her kids to cut up their old shirts, cause they couldn’t find toilet paper anywhere” says Kent Dueck, Executive Director of ICYA. “Community members have told us that some corner stores are price gouging. Many in our community cannot afford six rolls for $12.”

ICYA is seeking partners to help them distribute toilet paper to families in the North End. ICYA plans to sell the toilet paper at cost to those in need. “It’s a toilet paper co-operative. It’s about helping people while also empowering them beyond just a handout,” says Dueck.

“If you’ve hoarded toilet paper, now is your time to give it back to your Winnipeg community,” jokes Dueck. Beyond regular households, ICYA is also seeking any toilet paper distributors to sell it to them at cost. “Manitoba is the most generous province; we’re appealing to anyone who can help during these unprecedented times. We’ve got limited stock now, but it won’t last long.”

The toilet paper will be distributed at cost from a take-out window at their Aberdeen and Salter Ave. location. Orders can be made at their Facebook page and social distancing rules will apply at pick-up. ICYA asks that only households in need, or those unable to find transportation to big box stores, come to them.

ICYA normally runs a drop-in and camp program for at-risk kids and youth. All regular programs are closed indefinitely, and instead staff are connecting virtually with kids and parents to engage and educate them on COVID-19 measures and assistance programs.