Learn
Knowledge is the other half of dignity.
Products meet an immediate need. Understanding your body, in language that respects your culture, lasts a lifetime.
Period poverty
A hidden problem, even in the suburbs
Worldwide, more than 500 million people lack access to menstrual products and adequate facilities. In the United States, nearly one in four students has struggled to afford period products, and in one study of low-income women, two in three could not afford them at some point in the previous year.
Behind every number is a person who missed class, improvised with unsafe materials, or went without. In the Tri-Valley, that person is often a student, a parent stretching a paycheck, or someone staying at a shelter.
Sources: World Bank (2022); State of the Period, Thinx & PERIOD (2021); Sebert Kuhlmann et al., Obstetrics & Gynecology (2019).
Our approach to education
Why culture belongs in the conversation
Too often, health education either ignores faith and culture or treats them as obstacles. We treat them as the starting point.
Medically accurate
Our curriculum is reviewed by health professionals and covers anatomy, cycle health, hygiene, and when to seek care.
Community-shaped
Before every workshop we meet with partner leaders to agree on language, format, modesty guidelines, and who will be present.
Safe to ask
Anonymous question boxes, women-led facilitation, and moderated discussion so no one has to raise a hand to get an answer.
FAQ
Common questions
- What is period poverty?
- Period poverty is the lack of access to menstrual products, hygiene facilities, education, or all three. It can mean missing school or work, using unsafe substitutes, or choosing between products and other essentials.
- Does period poverty really exist in the Tri-Valley?
- Yes. It is less visible in suburban areas, but it affects low-income families, students, unhoused people, and displaced populations here too. Local shelters and family programs regularly run short of products.
- What does “culturally aware” health education mean?
- It means designing sessions with a community's values in mind: who is in the room, what language is used, how modesty is respected, and how faith and tradition shape the conversation. The goal is accurate health information delivered in a way people can actually receive.
- Who can attend your workshops and dialogues?
- Workshops are typically for women and girls and are organized with a partner community. Community dialogues are open events. Each listing on our Events page explains who it is for.
- What products do you accept?
- Unopened pads, tampons, liners, reusable products, fragrance-free wipes, new underwear, heating pads, and discreet pouches. See the Get Involved page for the full list.
Glossary
Words we use
- Menstrual equity
- Fair access to menstrual products, education, and facilities for everyone who menstruates.
- Reusable products
- Menstrual cups, discs, period underwear, and cloth pads that can be washed and reused, reducing cost and waste.
- Cycle literacy
- Understanding how the menstrual cycle works and what is typical, so people can recognize when something needs medical attention.
- Stigma
- Shame or silence around menstruation that keeps people from asking questions, seeking care, or accessing products.
Downloadable guides coming soon
We're preparing plain-language take-home guides and illustrated educational materials. Want early copies for your group?
Make a difference today
A box of pads shouldn't be a luxury. Help us make sure it never is.
Your gift buys menstrual products in bulk and funds workshops that meet women where they are. Because we work through partner organizations, almost every dollar goes directly to products and programs.