Peabody teen Alexandra Romano is "giving back" by collecting toothpaste, brushes, shampoo, soap, razors and other personal hygeine items for fellow teens who might be in need.

Mom Angela Romano tells Peabody Patch that Alexandra, 17 and a senior at Peabody Veterans Memorial High School, came up with the idea to make up "toiletry bags" and recently collected donations from family and friends, which she then brought over to Haven from Hunger for any teens served by the local food pantry.

"Her thought was that they should start the school year off with new personal items like a lot of kids do," said Angela Romano. In total, Alexandra dropped off 20 bags at the Haven a couple weeks ago.

Each bag contained a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, shampoo/conditioner, soap or body wash, body spray (Axe for the guys), shaving cream, two disposable razors and deodorant.

Angela Romano says Alexandra and her sister have helped out at the Haven before, collecting various donated items during the year -- even at their own birthday parties -- and organizing "Caroling for Cans" efforts. In fact, the sisters and some friends have gone Christmas caroling in the Romano's neighborhood, collecting donations for the pantry at each house they sang at.

"I thought it was a nice story -- no crime or bullying," says Angela Romano. "Just a good kid thinking of others."