Helping End Period Poverty in Billings

August 23, 2025

Period poverty affects an estimated 16.9 million Americans who menstruate, with students and low-income families struggling to afford basic menstrual products. One in five US students has missed school due to lack of period supplies, often resorting to unsafe alternatives like toilet paper or rags. While some states have eliminated the "tampon tax" and provide free products in schools, the lack of federal action means access varies dramatically by location. This issue particularly impacts communities of color and rural areas, where poverty rates are higher and access to stores is limited, perpetuating cycles of educational and economic inequality.

On August 23rd, members of the Zonta Club of Billings joined forces with 3  volunteers from the Women's Connection One and Done Volunteer Group to make a real difference in our community. Together, we packed 1,400 feminine hygiene kits for students at Riverside Middle School and Washington Innovation Center!

Every kit packed means a student can focus on learning instead of worrying about basic necessities.

Thank you to the volunteers who generously donated their time to help build a better world for the girls in our community.