The holiday season arrived before we even knew it! No matter what holiday you celebrate, if any, there is a special type of cheer in the air around this time of year. This is also a time of reflection and anticipation, as we celebrate our accomplishments from this past year and look towards more growth in the coming year. For me, part of this reflection and cheer includes giving back to organizations and causes that I care about.
There are many ways to give back to your community and it does not always have to be monetary. You can donate unused clothing, volunteer at a local food bank, or even write holiday cards to distribute at your local elderly care home. Community support comes in many forms!
In the spirit of giving, I wanted to share with you some menstrual health organizations dedicated to ending period poverty and ensuring everyone who needs menstrual supplies receives them this holiday season:
- The Pad Project – The Pad Project acknowledges that period poverty is an international concern and makes it a point to distribute menstrual products to those who need it across the globe. They are combating menstrual inequity in more ways than one by bringing washable pad programs into communities, furthering sexual and reproductive health education, and providing school districts with grants to purchase bulk menstrual supplies.
- The Period Project – The Period Project website provides a tutorial on how to host your own local “Packing Party,” which is a casual fundraiser that collects period products for donation, and educates guests on the importance of menstrual equity. If you are interested in hosting your own Packing Party, check out their website for the necessary supplies and some tips.
- Days for Girls – Days for Girls is the mastermind behind the Days for Girls (DfG) Pad, a washable, reusable, sustainable menstrual health product that’s built to last for up to three years. Days for Girls are always accepting donations to help create DfG Pad Kits, which they distribute internationally to women, girls, and people with the potential to menstruate. If you are based in the London area, Freedom 4 Girls hosts free workshops on how to sew your own reusable pads. If you’re unable to attend in person, this article provides a detailed tutorial on how to sew your own reusable pads.
- Bloody Good Period – This organization is based in the United Kingdom and is running a holiday-specific campaign to donate menstrual products. Bloody Good Period emphasizes the importance of personal choice and prioritizes the comfort of the people they work with, which is why they ask for a variety of period product donations. They like to have the option of disposable products (one-time use pads and tampons) and eco-friendly products (reusable pants and period underwear) to best fit the needs of those who request these products.
- DivaCup – For more creative ways to give back, check out this holiday guide created by DivaCup. From starting your own local period product drive, to advocating for greater access to menstrual hygiene products in the workplace, this article outlines some impactful, yet simple, ways to help end period stigma and period poverty.
I hope you are able to give thanks and spread some holiday cheer this season in whatever way you can.
I wish you all a joyous holiday season and a very Happy New Year – see you in 2023!
