For a third year, the Community FoodBank of New Jersey in Egg Harbor Township is holding a month-long statewide campaign to help provide period supplies for neighbors in need.
During the month of May, the #GreatBigPeriodProductDrive raises awareness and collects women’s hygiene products and funds to address period poverty, a problem faced by thousands of New Jersey residents. CFBNJ’s Women Fighting Hunger volunteers are spearheading the campaign.
Period product donations were collected May 4 at the ShopRite store in Somers Point, but the drive continues throughout the month. Donations can be dropped off during business hours at CFBNJ’s Egg Harbor Township warehouse, 6735 Black Horse Pike.
Most-needed items include tampons, regular maxi pads, super maxi pads, and panty liners. All items must be new and in original packaging. Procter & Gamble will match all product donations made that day to help CFBNJ collect twice as many period supplies.
Nationwide, more than two in five people with periods say they have struggled to access period products and one in four teens miss class for lack of a maxi pad or tampon. Period products are not covered by most federally funded public assistance programs, like SNAP and WIC.
“Period products are necessary for the health and well-being of people with periods,” said Elizabeth McCarthy, president and CEO of the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. “Those who struggle to afford nutritious food may also lack consistent access to these critical items. We’re proud to come together with the community to raise awareness and gather resources to address an often-hidden issue that affects thousands of people across the state.”
The #GreatBigPeriodProductDrive will run throughout the month of May, culminating with National Period Poverty Awareness Week, May 20-28. Individuals, groups, and companies are invited to join in the effort by conducting their own in-person or virtual drives or by supporting CFBNJ’s drive. Because of CFBNJ’s extensive buying power, cash donations to the drive will have a powerful impact. A $25 donation can provide a year’s worth of maxi pads for someone in need.
For more information on how to support the #GreatBigPeriodProductDrive, visit cfbnj.org/GBPPD.
