Teacher Crowdsources Deodorant For 'Funky' Second Graders

CROWN HEIGHTS, BROOKLYN — A Crown Heights teacher is raising money to buy her students personal hygiene supplies because “It’s getting warm and some kids are getting funky!”

Julia Austin, a special education teacher at Dr. Jacqueline Peek-Davis School in Weeksville, is hoping to raise $665 on DonorsChoose.org — a crowdfunding site for teachers — to help her students buy things like deodorant and hand sanitizer.

“My school has been teaching the students the importance of self-care,” wrote Austin, a second grade teacher at the public elementary school at 430 Howard Ave.

“A majority of my students are part of a vulnerable population and suffer from homelessness, mental health, domestic violence and are also in and out of foster homes,” wrote Austin. “[They] lack the necessary hygienic supplies and knowledge needed to feel at their best.”

Austin is hoping the cash will buy personal hygiene products such as hand sanitizer, lip balm, moisturizer and deodorant, but she’s also looking to buy some wellness products — such as a yoga mat and a box of aromatherapy oils — to keep in the classroom.

“My school provides them with a safe haven where they can express their wants and needs,” Austin wrote. “We love and support our children.”

The kids will be allowed to take their products home with them and will be given small boxes to keep their supplies at school, Austin wrote

Seven donors have given $166 to Austin’s campaign — entitled “Keeping It Nice and Clean!" — and shared their messages of support for her project.

“Personal hygiene is important,” wrote Michelle Bekas, “And everyone deserves to be as fresh on the outside as they feel on the inside!”

Austin even gave money herself.

“I can never stop giving to them,” Austin wrote with her donation. “I can't wait for them to see that others care for them as much as I do.”

Photo courtesy of ESB Professional/Shutterstock