Breaking the Cycle: Why Period Poverty Awareness Week Matters in South Carolina
May 12–18 is Period Poverty Awareness Week, and we’re joining advocates across the state to shine a light on the overlooked crisis of period poverty—a reality that affects thousands of South Carolinians every day.
While South Carolina eliminated its state sales tax on period products, reducing some of the financial burden on those who menstruate, challenges remain. In South Carolina, 1 in 6 women and girls between the ages of 12 and 44 lives below the federal poverty line. That’s over 183,000 individuals who struggle to afford basic menstrual products like pads or tampons. While programs like Medicaid and WIC provide essential support, they do not cover period supplies, leaving many to choose between buying food or managing their periods.
Nearly 1 in 4 students nationwide report struggling to afford period products. In South Carolina, 16% of female students in public school grades 7 to 12 attend schools where financial hardship is prevalent. Lack of access to menstrual products can lead to missed school days, impacting education and perpetuating cycles of poverty.
We believe that menstrual equity is a fundamental aspect of gender justice and are committed to advocating for policies that ensure free access to period products in schools, shelters, and public facilities. We also support educational initiatives to dismantle the stigma surrounding menstruation and promote open conversations about menstrual health.
Here’s How You Can Help Make a Difference:
• Donate: Support local organizations like Revolution Red, that provide menstrual products to those in need.
• Advocate: Contact your legislators to support policies that promote menstrual equity.
• Educate: Engage in conversations to break the stigma around menstruation.
• Volunteer: Participate in community drives to collect and distribute period products.
Period poverty is a solvable issue. By coming together during Period Poverty Awareness Week and beyond, we can ensure that no one in South Carolina has to miss school, work, or life because they lack access to menstrual products.
Let’s end the cycle—together.