August 23, 2025
Helping End Period Poverty in Billings

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.

Service Committee Supports Women and Girls Through Hygiene Kit Donation

gabrielladecke
Nov 20
1 min read

The Service Committee is proud to announce a $1,500 donation to Family Service, supporting their vital hygiene kit program for women and girls in our community.

Meeting a Critical Need

Family Service provides hygiene kits containing tampons, pads, shampoo, deodorant, and other essential personal care items to low-income women and girls. These basic necessities, which many of us take for granted, can be difficult to afford for families struggling financially.

Access to proper hygiene products is fundamental to maintaining dignity, confidence, and the ability to participate fully in work, school, and daily life. No woman or girl should have to go without these fundamental items.

Supporting Dignity and Opportunity

Through this donation, the Service Committee is helping ensure that all women and girls in our community can maintain their health and dignity, regardless of their economic circumstances. These hygiene kits remove barriers and help recipients lead productive, confident lives.

Special thanks to Julia Leslie, Sue Solomon and the Service Committee for their leadership in making this donation possible.

Together, we're building a more compassionate community where everyone has access to the essentials they need to thrive.