Due to the recent school closures caused by COVID-19, many families struggling financially in the U.S. are in need of extra support. Our organization is aware that individuals in low-income communities often have difficulty obtaining period care products, and given the current situation, that struggle has only increased.

The Pad Project has considered placing pad machines in the U.S., but we do not believe it would adequately address local systemic barriers to access. Period products are readily available in the U.S., but due to financial barriers, many individuals are not able to access them. 1 in 5 American girls have either left school early or missed it entirely because they didn’t have access to sanitary products. (Always Confidence and Puberty Study, Nov. 2017)

In California, schools that meet a 40% student poverty threshold are required to provide free menstrual hygiene products in school restrooms (AB-10). Because of the school closures, many students have now lost access to a reliable source of menstrual supplies. We want to ensure everyone has the necessary supplies to manage their periods regardless of their financial circumstances. Access to menstrual products is a basic human right. That’s why we’re working to support local homeless shelters, grassroots NGOs, and school districts in the U.S. that need menstrual products.

For every $1.00 donated, 5 pads will be provided to grassroots NGOs and homeless shelters in the U.S. We understand different menstrual products meet different needs, so we will be utilizing recommendations of the grassroots organizations to determine what combination of products will be donated. To learn more about the impact of your donation, see the cost breakdown below.