We talk a lot about period self-care around here, but period equity? That’s the baseline.
No one should miss school, skip meals, or wear rolled-up socks because they can’t afford a pad. Because period care is a right, not a privilege.
Thankfully, these incredible organisations are out there changing lives, fighting shame, and making sure period care gets to those who need it most. Here are four of our faves, and how you can help them make a bloody big difference.
Share the Dignity (Australia)
Who they are: Founded by powerhouse Rochelle Courtenay in 2015, Share the Dignity is a national Australian charity working to end period poverty by distributing period products to people experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, and financial hardship.
What they do:
- Dignity Drives every March and August, collects thousands of pads, tampons, undies, and cups across the country
- Install and maintain Dignity Vending Machines that dispense free pads/tampons in schools, refuges, community centres, and more
- Run #ItsInTheBag, a Christmas initiative where Aussies donate handbags filled with period and personal care essentials for people in crisis
- Advocate for systemic change - they were behind the tampon tax removal and continue to push for better access in schools and public spaces
How to support:
- Donate products during their drives (you’ll find collection bins in major retailers like Woolies and Bunnings)
- Donate funds to support their vending machines and outreach
- Build a #ItsInTheBag pack at Christmas
- Follow, share, speak up, period poverty isn’t always visible, but the more we talk about it, the harder it is to ignore
Days for Girls
Who they are: Part of a global movement, Days for Girls provides sustainable menstrual health solutions and education to girls and women in need.
What they do:
- Distribute reusable menstrual kits, including washable pads and hygiene items.
- Offer health education programs to break stigmas and cultural taboos associated with menstruation.
- Empower communities through training and support to produce and distribute kits locally.
How to support:
- Volunteer to sew or assemble kits.
- Donate funds or materials.
- Host awareness events.
- Advocate for menstrual health education.
The Cova Project
Who they are: A social enterprise founded in Melbourne, The Cova Project supplies menstrual cups to girls and women in Sub-Saharan Africa, where period stigma and lack of resources can keep girls out of school for up to 50 days a year.
What they do:
- Distribute menstrual cups alongside tailored education on reproductive health and consent
- Work directly with local community leaders to ensure cultural safety and long-term success
- Empower girls with the resources to manage their periods safely and with dignity
How to support:
- Donate directly (one-off or monthly)
- Host a fundraising event or make it your “give back” gift of choice
- Follow their work and help normalise global period talk
The Period Project (National Homeless Collective)
Who they are: A nationwide initiative supporting women, non-binary people, and trans men experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity.
What they do:
- Distribute "Period Packs" containing pads, tampons, wipes, and hygiene items.
- Employ women experiencing homelessness or escaping domestic violence to assemble these packs.
- Operate in major cities and regional areas, including Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney, Canberra, Gippsland, and the Murray Region.
How to support:
- Donate funds or period products.
- Sponsor a Period Pack.
- Volunteer for packing events.
