We heard from Dustin Oltman of Lincoln Hygiene Network at Lincoln South Rotary Club on March 21, 2025.
The mission of the Lincoln Hygiene Network is to provide hygiene and personal care products to improve the health, dignity and self-esteem of impoverished and vulnerable persons. They envision a community in which everyone has access to hygiene and personal care products.
Dustin defined hygiene poverty as "Lack of access to necessary products such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, and period products due to the inability to afford them."
Dustin explained the purpose of the organization - "their why" as it titled it.
- - The need is great in our community and SNAP funds do not cover hygiene products; individuals may need to decide between hygiene or hunger in their family
- - Many of the non-profit organizations do not have the resources to address hygiene needs in additional to their other support; some such as the food bank try to also provide and support hygiene but for the Lincoln Hygiene Network that is their focus
- - Consequences of hygiene poverty are preventable - humiliation, shame, mental and physical health issues, attendance at school and work
He stated that the network was organized during Covid when many hygiene products became nearly impossible to get.Since their founding, their impact has continued to grow.
2021 - Over 26,000 hygiene products were distributed through 14 Giving Partners
2022 - 67,000+ hygiene products were distributed through 18 Giving Partners
2023 - Over 135,000 hygiene products were distributed and the Giving Partners grew to 23
2024 - They have 25 Giving Partners and distributed 204,000 hygiene products
They found with a recent assessment than an average of 1600 individuals get help monthly - but the need is nearly 7000.
Dustin explained that the Lincoln Hygiene Network is not a direct provider for the product to individuals.The network is a warehouse for the products. They find donors or wholesale partners willing to provide the products free or at reduced prices. They receive larger quantities of high-quality products. They act as a bank for the products - filling orders for organizations that provide the product to individuals.
They have 25 Giving Partners that distribution the products to individuals and also provide some of the funds to support the purchases. The Giving Partners include schools, community centers, food pantries, domestic abuse organizations, trafficking and other nonprofits who support underserved communities. It is those Giving Partners that provide the products to individuals.
He said that the network has been able to get customized products for providers such as curly-hair products. They not only distribute individual products but also have the ability to distribute hygiene kits that include travel size items.
His closing quote "let's work together to restore & maintain respect , dignity and wellbeing".
BIO
Dustin Oltman is deeply rooted in Lincoln, both as a longtime resident and father of five. As the Executive Director of the Lincoln Hygiene Network, he demonstrates a strong commitment to community service.
His expertise extends beyond this role. He founded DKO Perspectives, LLC, where he assists nonprofits, businesses, and individuals in strategic planning and execution. Dustin's leadership empowers individuals, teams, and communities through effective engagement initiatives.
He excels at identifying community needs, building partnerships, and implementing impactful programs. This dedication is further evidenced by his receipt of the Melvin W. Jones Mentoring Award and his participation in Leadership Lincoln. Additionally, he has served on the ACCC Board of Directors and in the CCDA Leadership Cohort, bringing valuable local knowledge and leadership experience to each role.
His expertise extends beyond this role. He founded DKO Perspectives, LLC, where he assists nonprofits, businesses, and individuals in strategic planning and execution. Dustin's leadership empowers individuals, teams, and communities through effective engagement initiatives.
He excels at identifying community needs, building partnerships, and implementing impactful programs. This dedication is further evidenced by his receipt of the Melvin W. Jones Mentoring Award and his participation in Leadership Lincoln. Additionally, he has served on the ACCC Board of Directors and in the CCDA Leadership Cohort, bringing valuable local knowledge and leadership experience to each role.