We are droplet.
A drop in the sea of organisations, movements and initiatives addressing period poverty in an ocean of need. Every ripple of change is made up of single droplets, and so we have a role to play.
Every person either knows someone who menstruates or menstruates themselves. But while we recognize that conversations surrounding menstruation are evolving, an awareness-action gap remains.That’s why we are not just a conversation, we are action.
Our local initiative, based in the Hague, is driven by a widely shared belief in menstrual equity in the Netherlands and beyond. Every person deserves access to essential hygiene products, regardless of their identity or circumstances. Moreover, every period is different; there is no correct way to bleed. Within our bodies, menopause, contraceptives, hormonal health, endometriosis and our mental states (to name a few) can affect how and when we experience periods. Our circumstances can also determine whether we bleed comfortably, hygienically and safely. The reality is that period inequity is a local and global issue; menstruation doesn’t stop in situations of poverty, displacement or conflict.
So what can we do about it?
Our community objective is twofold; to educate, fundraise, and spread awareness about the persisting issue of period poverty worldwide, and to provide the necessary products to those who need them in our community.
Through fundraisers predominantly aimed at those who have a lot to give, but are sometimes left out of the conversation (e.g. internationals and older folks), we will strive to get a broader demographic involved in alleviating period poverty in and around the Hague. Our strategy is collaborative and we seek to forge partnerships with existing community groups so that, together, we can look for gaps in which we can facilitate smoother and more frequent donations of sanitary products to local food banks and shelters.
We operate on a needs-based giving system: no judgement passed, no questions asked. Every drop of period blood should be handled with the correct sanitary service. As such, we strive to get a greater range of sanitary products into our local food banks and shelters, from panty liners and super absorbent pads, to every type of tampon and size of adult diapers. And though we care about sustainable systems and waste-free solutions, we acknowledge that not everyone is in the position to prioritise eco-friendly menstrual practices. This could be for any number of reasons, including: biology, economic circumstances, cultural norms, or personal preference.
Join us in our commitment to do something tangible about period poverty and to promote menstrual equity for all. Together, we can ensure that menstruation is not a barrier to dignity, opportunity, or wellbeing within our communities.