Nonprofit to combat period poverty in Oregon through donations of menstrual products

Positive Charge! PDX organized a weekend collection event in Portland to address period poverty by encouraging donations of menstrual and hygiene products. This initiative, part of the Period Power Project, aims to assist low-income individuals who struggle to afford these essential items. According to Sallie Cohen from Period Power, one in three low-income women and girls miss work or school due to a lack of access to period supplies. The project runs from May 10 to May 30, coinciding with Period Poverty Awareness Week and World Menstrual Hygiene Day.

Oregonians can donate at various drop-off sites in Portland, Beaverton, Lake Oswego, and Oregon City. Abby Menashe, co-leader of the project, emphasized the challenges faced by low-income neighbors, including refugees and migrant farmworkers. A "Packing Party" is set for June 1 at Ida B. Wells High School to assemble donated items into Period Packs. These packs will be distributed through local organizations to those in need.