The Issue
What is period poverty?
Period poverty is the lack of access to menstrual products, hygiene facilities, and education due to financial hardship. It's a widespread, often invisible problem — and it's solvable.
By the numbers
Period poverty in Los Angeles
Teens in the U.S. have struggled to afford period products
Of LA County residents who menstruate report period poverty
Of students have missed class due to lack of period products
Who it affects
It can happen to anyone
Period poverty affects students who miss school, people experiencing homelessness who lack access to basic hygiene, and families who must choose between groceries and period products. In Los Angeles, this impacts thousands of menstruating individuals every month. Period products are not covered by SNAP/EBT benefits in most cases, and many shelters and schools don't stock them — leaving people to use unsafe alternatives or go without.
Breaking the stigma
Why we talk about this openly
Periods are a normal, healthy part of life — but stigma and silence keep people from asking for help, getting accurate information, and accessing the products they need. By talking openly about periods, we make it easier for everyone to get support without shame.