The Boys & Girls Club of Henderson County is proud to announce a new partnership with Healthy Blue, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina’s (Blue Cross NC’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,” said Kent Parent, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Henderson County. “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,” said Healthy Blue CEO Angela Boykin. “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 Club members build confidence, make healthy choices, and grow into successful, healthy men and women. These programs support the Club’s members through critical stages of development, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and guidance they need to navigate life with confidence.
“This builds confidence for our middle school and teen members,” said Christine Clark, Human Resources Director at the Boys & Girls Club of Henderson County. “Some of our youth may not always have access to these products at home, and having them available here reinforces the importance of daily self-care. It’s also about dignity and reassurance, knowing they have what they need. This partnership with Healthy Blue is an incredible support system for our kids as they grow.”
In addition to meeting immediate needs, the resource also strengthens relationships between youth and staff.
“It adds another layer of support and trust,” said Josh Thompson, Teen Unit Director at the Boys & Girls Club of Henderson County. “A member can come to a trusted adult and simply say they need something, without having to explain their situation. At the same time, it can open the door for us to better understand what’s going on in their lives and how we can support them. It’s a meaningful addition and truly a gift to our kids.”
This partnership marks the beginning of an ongoing collaboration between the Boys & Girls Club of Henderson County and Healthy Blue, with plans to continue working together to meet the evolving needs of youth and families in the community.
When basic needs are met, young people are better equipped to focus on building confidence, developing skills, and reaching their full potential. Both organizations are committed to supporting that outcome.
