During May of 2021, the Solano Commission for Women and Girls has enjoyed partnering with the Touro University School of Medicine's chapter of the American Medical Women's Association in a project aimed at addressing a major issue faced by houseless women in Solano County: lack of menstrual hygiene products.
Our Period Product Drive held May 1 through 14 was wildly successful. We are so grateful to our community for your generous donations of tampons, pads, wipes and chocolate to be included in period kits. We raised over $1,000 for use in purchasing items in bulk.
On May 21, several commissioners and other volunteers, led by Jennifer Artz of Vacaville Solano Services, met to package period products for distribution to women who find themselves to be currently homeless in our community. Commissioners who haven't met in person for over a year, were excited to be together again. Some were so joyous they broke out in song during our packing session. We were joined by college and high school aged volunteers, and by a Vacaville city council member.
Distribution of these products to women in need has already begun, with Ms. Artz delivering period products in the homeless community just in time for Menstrual Hygiene Day, May 28.
Due to the generosity of our community and the medical students at Touro, we have enough period products to make this an ongoing project. Although this project was partially aimed at bringing attention to the issue in association with Menstrual Hygiene Day, we aim to make everyday Menstrual Hygiene Day in Solano County until period stigma and period poverty become relics of the past.
Stay tuned for opportunities to join us at our next packaging party.