Junior League highlights period poverty during Awareness Week

Left to right: Junior League of Boca Raton members Shayna Franco Foster, Alexis Montero, Tara Henn, Jordan Ilan Lombard, Kimberly Chapman. [Photo by the Junior League of Boca Raton]

In communities often associated with affluence and opportunity, a quieter issue is affecting young female students’ health, dignity and ability to learn.

It’s called period poverty, and members of the Junior League of Boca Raton say it is more widespread than many realize.

Period poverty refers to the inability to afford or access basic menstrual hygiene products, as well as adequate facilities and education. For students, that gap can lead to missed school days, skipped activities and ongoing anxiety.

About four years ago, the Junior League of Boca Raton launched a pilot program to address the issue after identifying a growing need in the community.

“We go out into the community to identify needs, and once we saw the impact and the level of need, we turned it into a formal committee,” says Victoria Matthews, president of the Junior League of Boca Raton. “Now period poverty is one of our key focus areas.”

As part of its outreach, members of the Junior League of Boca Raton’s Period Poverty Committee are asking for the community’s help during Period Poverty Awareness Week, May 11–17. So far this year, the committee has donated more than 7,000 hygiene supplies to underserved girls.

Matthews said many people assume menstrual products are readily available, but that is not always the case. For underserved girls in Boca Raton and surrounding areas, basic necessities like pads and tampons can be out of reach.

The Junior League’s Period Poverty Committee has distributed thousands of supplies this year, guided by what members see firsthand — students quietly struggling and school staff working to fill gaps. Rising living costs and inflation have only increased the need.

The organization has partnered with local groups to expand its reach, including participation in Spirit of Giving’s back-to-school bash.

“We distribute hygiene kits, as well as items like makeup and bras, and we make it a positive experience,” Matthews says. “It’s only teenage girls, and it gives them dignity and confidence so they don’t feel embarrassed.”

Despite expanded donations and partnerships, demand continues to outpace supply. Many schools rely on ongoing contributions to keep products available.

To help close that gap, the Junior League works with schools, nonprofits and community partners to place supplies in discreet, accessible locations designed to reduce stigma and support student confidence.

The most urgent needs include menstrual products such as pads, tampons and liners, along with financial donations to sustain distribution efforts. Community members can also support the initiative through donation drives and volunteer opportunities.

Advocates say the issue goes beyond access to hygiene products.

“It’s about dignity and equity,” Matthews says. “It’s about making sure every girl has the opportunity to succeed.”

Those wanting to help can donate to the Junior League of Boca Raton’s Amazon Wishlist.

Organizers say donations are welcome year-round, but especially during Period Poverty Awareness Week.

For more information or to volunteer with the Junior League of Boca Raton visit www.jlbr.org.