From March 10th to April 4th, Women United, United Way Hands On (UWHO) and United Way of Central Alabama (UWCA) led the second annual period supply drive — collecting an estimated $35,000 in in-kind donations of menstrual products.
“This campaign responded directly to feedback from our nonprofit partners, who identified period products as one of the most urgent unmet needs in their communities,” said Rachael Upton, Director of Volunteer Engagement for United Way Hands On.
Period poverty remains a serious and often overlooked challenge for women and girls across Central Alabama. Nearly one in three adults and one in four students report struggling to afford menstrual products. Even more concerning, two in five teens say they’ve worn products longer than recommended because they didn’t have access to replacements — a health risk no one should have to take.
Meeting the Need: Partnership in Action
To help meet this need, Women United members recently attended a Lunch & Learn and kit-building event at Brasfield & Gorrie, a long-time supporter of United Way. The event featured Brooke McKinley, Director of Shelby Emergency Assistance (SEA), a United Way partner agency that provides both immediate crisis support and long-term guidance for families in Shelby County.
Through its THRIVE Together program, SEA works one-on-one with single mothers who are raising young children while facing barriers such as low wages, unstable housing or limited education. The program connects participants with resources, including job training, transportation support, financial coaching and childcare — giving them the tools to create lasting stability for their families.
“Forty percent of our calls were from single mothers, so we knew there was a need there,” McKinley said. “Our goal is to offer both immediate relief and the tools families need to sustain themselves in the long run.”
Women United Packs Kits to Fight Against Period Poverty
After the panel discussion, Women United members packed 200 period supply kits filled with tampons, pads and other essentials.
“Volunteering with Women United showed me how easy it can be to make a real difference,” said one Women United member. “Packing the kits was hands-on, meaningful work; and knowing they’ll reach someone who needs them made it even more impactful.”
United Way Hands On is now distributing the kits through schools, shelters and local agencies such as Girls Inc. and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Alabama — providing essential supplies directly to those experiencing period poverty.
This impact wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of our corporate partners, community donors and the dedicated volunteers who continue to step up when it matters most.
Learn more about Women United, its role in the community and how to get involved here.
