Menstrual health is a fundamental aspect of well-being, yet many individuals struggle to access essential sanitary products due to financial constraints. In New Jersey, various programs aim to support low-income residents by providing free or subsidized menstrual products, breaking the stigma around periods, and fostering menstrual health awareness in Edison and other cities.

The Financial Burden of Menstrual Products

For individuals facing financial hardship, purchasing sanitary products can be a recurring struggle. The cost of tampons, sanitary napkins, and other menstrual essentials adds up, making them inaccessible to many. This issue is commonly referred to as period poverty, which disproportionately affects marginalized communities. In areas like Paterson, NJ, and Woodbridge, NJ, many residents rely on donation drives and assistance programs to meet their menstrual health needs.

Statewide Initiatives Supporting Menstrual Health

New Jersey has recently taken steps to address period poverty by implementing initiatives that provide menstrual products through public assistance programs. Some key efforts include:

  • Inclusion of Menstrual Products in SNAP and WIC: The state has been advocating for the inclusion of sanitary napkins and tampons in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits.
  • Menstrual Product Distribution in Schools: Many school districts in Edison and Jersey City have begun providing free sanitary products in restrooms to support students who may not have access at home.
  • Legislation for Period Equity: New Jersey lawmakers have introduced bills to eliminate the sales tax on menstrual products and ensure accessibility for low-income individuals.

Local Organizations Offering Support

Numerous nonprofit organizations and community groups are working to combat period poverty by hosting menstrual hygiene awareness campaigns and distributing free products. In Lakewood, NJ, groups organize donation drives to collect and distribute feminine hygiene products to shelters, schools, and community centers.

Some notable organizations include:

  • The Utpat Foundation: Founded by teenage sisters Nishka Utpat and Kaanchi Utpat, this nonprofit works tirelessly to provide menstrual education and distribute products to those in need. Their menstrual hygiene awareness campaign in Trenton and other cities raises awareness and offers tangible support. Learn more about their work here.
  • Local Food Pantries and Shelters: Many community resource centers in Toms River, Hamilton Township, and Freehold Township offer free sanitary napkins as part of their services.
  • Religious and Cultural Organizations: Churches, mosques, and temples often run donation drives and provide assistance to those in need.

How to Access Free Menstrual Products

If you or someone you know is struggling to afford menstrual products, here are some ways to find assistance:

  • Visit a local food pantry or community center: Many distribute free feminine hygiene products as part of their support services.
  • Check with your school or university: Educational institutions in Newark, Trenton, and Woodbridge often provide free menstrual products in restrooms and health offices.
  • Attend a menstrual health awareness event: Many organizations host menstrual hygiene awareness campaigns that include product distribution and educational resources.
  • Request assistance from nonprofit organizations: Groups like the Utpat Foundation work directly with communities to provide menstrual health support. Contact them here to learn more.

A group of young women attending a menstrual health workshop.

Breaking the Stigma Around Menstruation

Despite increasing awareness, the stigma around menstruation remains a challenge in many communities. In cities like Elizabeth, NJ, Hamilton Township, and Toms River, cultural taboos often prevent open discussions about menstrual health. Education and awareness initiatives are critical to normalizing these conversations and ensuring that no one feels ashamed about their natural biological process.

By supporting organizations that advocate for menstrual equity and participating in donation drives, we can help ensure that every person has access to the products they need.

Take Action Today!

We are Nishka Utpat and Kaanchi Utpat, the founders of the Utpat Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals through menstrual health education and access to essential products. Through our menstrual hygiene awareness campaign in Freehold Township, we are working to break barriers and provide resources to those in need.

You can make a difference! Consider donating feminine hygiene products to support low-income individuals or join one of our awareness events. Get involved today and help us create a future where menstrual health is a right, not a privilege.