“`html
Zonta Club of Quaboag Valley Launches Annual Period project to Combat Period Poverty
Belchertown, MA – January 20, 2026 – The Zonta Club of Quaboag Valley has initiated its annual Period Project, a vital fundraising and supply drive dedicated to providing menstrual hygiene products to individuals in need throughout Hampden and Hampshire counties.This initiative addresses a notable, often overlooked, form of poverty known as period poverty.
Understanding Period Poverty
Period poverty refers to the lack of access to menstrual products,sanitation facilities,and adequate education about menstruation. This can lead to significant health,social,and economic consequences for those affected.Because feminine hygiene products are not classified as essential items by the federal government, they are not covered by assistance programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for women, Infants, and children (WIC) [[2]]. This leaves many individuals struggling to afford these necessary supplies.
What the Period Project Provides
The Zonta club’s Period Project collects and distributes essential items to local shelters, food pantries, schools, and organizations that serve women and teens.Donations sought include:
- Sealed boxes of individually wrapped pads
- Sealed boxes of tampons
- Cleansing wipes
- Hand sanitizer or soap
- panty liners
- Toiletries such as hair products and lotions
How to Donate and Get Involved
There are several ways to support the Period Project:
- Donation Drop-Off Locations: Addresses and maps for drop-off locations throughout Hampden and Hampshire counties can be found at www.zontaqv.org/period.
- Amazon Wish List: Contribute directly through the project’s amazon wish list,also available at www.zontaqv.org/period.
- Financial Contributions: Cash donations to purchase needed items are gratefully accepted. Checks can be made payable to “Zonta” and mailed to: P.O. Box 1034, Belchertown, MA 01007.
- Volunteer at Kit Assembly: Join the public and volunteers in assembling Period Project kits on Saturday, Febuary 21st, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Venture Way Collaborative,200 Venture Way,Hadley.
For questions about donations or pickup, contact Mary Knight, chair of the Period Project committee, at (413) 219-8260.
The Importance of Addressing Period Needs