September 9, 2025
By MEALAND RAGLAND-HUDGINS
Rutherford County Schools
Oakland High School, in partnership with Archie’s Promise and Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, cut the ribbon on a hygiene vending machine for students Monday.
Archie’s Promise has used grant funds to cover the machines – which have an average cost of $4,200 – but businesses and community groups have stepped up to purchase machines outright.
Several middle and high schools have machines, Archie’s Promise founder Claressa Ham said. A total of 17 units have been installed across Rutherford County Schools, Murfreesboro City Schools and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Rutherford County.
Items stocked vary by school, but common items include five-day feminine hygiene packs, laundry sheets, deodorant, bar soap, snacks and packs with travel size shampoo/conditioner, Ham said. An Archie’s Promise staff member replenishes the machines weekly.
Archie’s Promise is looking for sponsors to cover the cost of hygiene supplies for the current school year. For more information, email [email protected] or call 615-427-1816.
Donations may also be purchased and shipped using this Amazon Wish List: https://a.co/cdpIITS.
