May 23rd through the 29th is Period Poverty Awareness Week.
According to The Alliance for Period Supplies; 2 in 5 people who menstruate cannot afford period supplies in a given year due to lack of income. Other studies show that 1 in 3 low income people with a period have used socks, news paper and toilet tissue to manage their periods; this is unacceptable.
Periods are a natural biological function, just like going to the bathroom. Yet, toilet paper and paper towels are free in public restrooms; why aren’t period supplies?
As we honor this week of engagement and awareness, we ask that you share information with your family and friends about period poverty. Please talk with your children about periods and what happens to someone’s body each month, due to no fault of their own. Advocating for free period supplies in public restrooms is another great start. When was the last time you were expected to carry a roll of toilet paper with you?
Volunteering, monetary and product donations are all very important BUT talking about periods, about period poverty and about why everyone deserves the ability to care for themselves is most important. When we work to break the taboo surrounding menstruation, will we work to end period poverty in our community of Southern Nevada and all over the world.
If you live in Southern Nevada, we appreciate your support, however; if you don’t live near us, please visit the Alliance for Period Supplies and find a program close to you. https://allianceforperiodsupplies.org/period-poverty/
When we work together, to care for the community around us, is when our humanity truly shines.
