What Are Period Kits?

I was fortunate to meet an inspiring young lady, Ms. Emie Clevenger, at Telling Our Stories, our writer’s group hosted by Ms. Cindy Brookshire. Ms. Clevenger shared her story of growing up without the necessities of menstrual supplies. Her story was amazing and through sharing with others college, travels, work, etc., she has learned that this problem is vast so much so that Period Kits was founded in 2019 as a nonprofit in Colorado. This program has expanded to Ohio, Minnesota and North Carolina.

When Ms. Clevenger returned home to Goldsboro NC, she saw some of the same struggles that were experienced when she was a young girl and launched Period Kits NC. This nonprofit is to ensure that no one would have to face the menstrual poverty struggle alone. The program is committed to helping individuals never miss “life” because they do not have the period supplies needed to function in their education, employment, special gatherings or other opportunities available to them. Period poverty has been experienced by individuals due to homelessness as well.

Period Kits NC is on the move, thousands of kits have been distributed to schools, community colleges, and local organizations making the period kits available without shame or stigma. This nonprofit organization is also opening conversations about menstrual health and breaking down the barriers that may influence women due to religion, ignorance or finances. Do you know individuals that may struggle or have struggled with period poverty and what were their reasons for the deficit?

Our Harrison Senior Center and many of the businesses in our area are soliciting supplies to stomp out Period Poverty. This was enlightening to me because I never knew there was an issue but understand how a lack of finance could be a factor. One lady shared in her dialogue from a blog of her questioning should she purchase food or tampons? That is not a question individuals should have to entertain. Thankful for a program like Period Kits which ensures that everyone is covered for life to support their dreams and aspirations and to never have to miss life because of menstrual poverty. Let us support these businesses and start a conversation.

(Thanks to Reproductive Health Suppliespic)