Having your period is one of the most natural things in the world—but misinformation, shame, and lack of access can turn it into a crisis.
“I was in school when I got my period for the first time. I didn’t understand what was happening, and I bled through my clothing”, says Alex.
She didn’t have products. She didn’t have information. And she didn’t feel safe asking for help.
“I was scared to tell anyone. My family was already struggling to put food on the table, it was a tough and scary time. I remember going without dinner sometimes so my younger siblings could eat more.”
When she finally confided in her mother, she was met not with judgment—but with quiet heartbreak. Her mom was doing everything she could to keep things together while Alex’s father searched for work after a sudden layoff. With no menstrual supplies at home, Alex was told to stay home from school for the rest of the week.
“I felt like I had done something wrong. Like I was a burden. I missed school, I thought about my friends during recess time and wondered what I was missing out on. I fell behind in my homework, it was a very important time to be in school, and I carried shame I didn’t even understand.”
Now an adult and a mother of two myself this is something I really want to see changed, Alex says her experiences shaped how she sees access to menstrual products—”it’s a basic essential need, it’s not a luxury and it’s one that people don’t consider or talk about enough. Periods are normal, and having access to basic needs should be too.”
“This cause is so close to my heart. I know how hard it is to go without, and I never want my children or another person to feel what I felt no matter what their life circumstances are—ashamed, alone, or left behind just because they have their period.”
That’s why Alex supports Period Promise—a commitment to ensuring no one misses school, work, or life because they can’t afford menstrual hygiene products. No one should have to choose between food on their table and basic hygiene products.
Together we can help
Please consider making a donation to Period Promise. Drop off pads, tampons or menstrual cups, all donations collected locally will stay locally and be distributed to individuals in need throughout Chatham-Kent. Menstrual Hygiene products are often a shortfall at food banks and shelters even though they are frequently requested by individuals in need.
What: Period Promise | Drive-Thru Donation Drop-Off
When: Wednesday, May 28, 2025 | 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Where: Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church | Held Outdoors in the Parking Lot | 445 McNaughton Ave W, Chatham ON
Can’t donate in person?
Every product donated means one more person can live with dignity.
Let’s keep the promise. Together.