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.

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

gabrielladecke
Feb 21
1 min read

Respect – the Key to Real Love

February is the month of Love. Flowers, Candy, Jewelry. These are heart-thumping symbols of affection. While I hope these feelings are real, the fact is that 1 in 3 adolescents is a victim of abuse by a dating partner. Yet only about one-third of those being abused ever tell anyone. The abuse experienced by teens ranges from sexual assault to manipulation and coercion to verbal humiliation. This is not real love.

Real love should never make someone question their worth or safety. Instead, real love should be centered around respect for each other. Real love and respect involve listening, trust, and growth of the relationship. Respect is non-negotiable.

February is the month of Love. It is also Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. It is a good time to learn and have conversations about warning signs of abuse including continual insults, extreme jealousy, possessiveness and control, and invading your privacy.

Don’t turn a blind eye. We need to talk to each other about love – and abuse. Teens don’t need to learn the hard way.