Activism | April 4th, 2025

Breaking the Cycle: How WE MATTER PERIOD is Fighting Period Poverty Nationwide

By: Jalen Ellis

Addressing a Critical Need 

Tallahassee, FL — WE MATTER PERIOD, a nonprofit organization founded by Paris Ellis, is making strides to combat period poverty across the U.S. By providing free menstrual essentials to women in schools, shelters, and underserved communities, the organization ensures that no one has to go without basic hygiene necessities. 

Understanding Period Poverty 

Period poverty affects millions of individuals worldwide, preventing them from accessing the menstrual products they need due to financial constraints. The consequences extend beyond hygiene, impacting education, employment, and overall well-being. Many women and girls miss school or work simply because they cannot afford basic period supplies. WE MATTER PERIOD aims to break the stigma surrounding menstruation while providing tangible solutions. 

From a Grad School Project to National Impact 

Ellis started WE MATTER PERIOD in 2017 at Florida A&M University as a graduate school project. What began as a small initiative quickly grew into an LLC, and later into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Today, the organization operates nationwide, addressing the widespread issue of period poverty through grassroots activism and community engagement. 

“We believe that menstrual products should be treated as basic necessities, not luxury items,” said Ellis. “No one should have to suffer simply because they can’t afford them.” 

Community-Driven Initiatives 

Party with a Purpose 

One of the organization’s standout programs is “Party with a Purpose”, an initiative where volunteers gather for community cookouts to package and distribute period essentials. These events have been held in multiple states, including California, Texas, Washington, D.C., and North Carolina 

“We’ve seen a tremendous response at these events,” said Maria Reynolds, a volunteer from North Carolina. “Communities really come together to make sure women don’t go without something as essential as menstrual products.” 

These community-driven efforts also help spark conversations about policy changes, menstrual health education, and greater awareness about accessibility issues faced by low-income individuals. 

School & Shelter Partnerships 

WE MATTER PERIOD works with schools, shelters, and transitional housing programs to ensure that menstrual products are readily available to those who need them most. By collaborating with teachers, social workers, and community leaders, the organization ensures that access to these products is consistent and reliable. 

“So many young students have told us that receiving free period products at school has been life-changing for them,” Ellis shared. “It’s a basic necessity, but for many, it’s a struggle to obtain.” 

Expanding Access & Partnerships 

WE MATTER PERIOD has distributed thousands of care packages and formed partnerships with schools, shelters, and local organizations to maintain a steady supply of menstrual products for those in need. As the organization continues to expand, Ellis is seeking to broaden collaborations with businesses and advocacy groups nationwide. 

“The ultimate goal is to create a world where access to period essentials is never a barrier for anyone—because we all matter, period.” – Paris Ellis 

The Mission Moving Forward 

“At the heart of what we do is the belief that no one should ever have to choose between food and period products,” said Lisa Sanchez, a member of WE MATTER PERIOD. “We’re going to keep expanding until that choice doesn’t exist.” 

Ellis envisions the organization reaching every corner of the country, leveraging its growing network of volunteers to spread awareness and provide resources to those in need. Future plans include statewide educational campaigns, lobbying for policy changes, and establishing permanent supply stations in schools and shelters across the country. 

Learn More & Get Involved 

To support WE MATTER PERIOD, donate, or find an upcoming Party with a Purpose event near you, visit Instagram: @WeMatterPeriodinc