Fighting for menstrual equity through period product pantries

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Community Health
• Social Equity

Background:

• Period poverty affects 42% of menstruators in the US, leading to health issues like UTIs and dermatitis.
• Traditional aid distribution can disempower menstruators and be inefficient.
• Period product pantries offer a novel solution to period poverty and menstrual health education gaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• Examine the development, organization, and implementation of two period product pantry networks.
• Compare grassroots vs. nonprofit-led models regarding advantages and challenges.
• Provide practical insights for future pantry initiatives.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of a grassroots pantry in Ohio and a nonprofit-led pantry in New York.
• Qualitative data collection through interviews and document review.
• Focus on accessibility, community engagement, and sustainability.

Main Results:

• Both pantry networks improved access to period products in underserved neighborhoods.
• Grassroots model fostered strong community ties but faced resource limitations.
• Nonprofit model offered stability but encountered bureaucratic hurdles.
• Both models preserved menstruator dignity and autonomy.

Conclusions:

• Period product pantries are an innovative and equitable solution to period poverty.
• Comparative analysis offers insights for establishing similar initiatives.
• Both models effectively empower menstruators and improve access to menstrual hygiene products.