We Need to Talk About Period Poverty

When we discuss the barriers that women face, we talk a lot about income inequality and achievement gaps—and these are important. One thing we don’t talk about enough, however, is period poverty.

The problem is widespread

A 2019 study found that two-thirds of women with low income were unable to afford period products during the previous year. Every month, approximately one in three low-income women have to miss school, work, or other outings because they cannot afford period supplies.

This is a major barrier to opportunity, yet most states still tax the sale of feminine hygiene products and offer far too few programs to make these items available to women with low income.

We can do this

As a society, we owe it to ourselves to fix the systemic issues that create income inequality and achievement gaps. One thing we can do right now, however, is solve period poverty in our communities.

At Emmaus House, our food pantry is stocked with many necessary staples, including feminine hygiene items.

You can help us solve period poverty in our community by donating items on Mondays and Fridays from 9-2:30 p.m. We also accept financial contributions.

Click below to learn more about how you can support the Emmaus House food pantry.

If you’d like your donation to exclusively go toward purchasing feminine hygiene items, on the donation page please add “Period Poverty” in the field asking “What would you like us to know about this gift?”