Hernandez Hosting Annual Menstrual Product Drive, Asks Residents for Donations

AURORA, Ill. – State Rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora, is hosting her 3rd annual Menstrual Hygiene Product Donation Drive from Monday, July 26 through Friday, Aug. 6 to collect products that will be donated to local residents in need.

“Period poverty, or the lack of access to menstrual hygiene supplies, is more common than people may think, and it is unfortunately something happening to individuals right here in our community,” said Hernandez. “Menstrual hygiene products are not optional luxuries, and we must do more to ensure that no individual has to compromise their health and well-being because of not being able to afford or access these products.”

Hernandez is asking community members to consider donating menstrual hygiene products, including pads, tampons, feminine wipes or menstrual cups. For a convenient, contactless way of donating, individuals can donate products through Amazon, by visiting http://bit.ly/periodpoverty83. Individuals can also deliver donations in-person to Mutual Ground, located at 120 Gale St. in Aurora, the Open Door Health Center, located at 157 S. Lincoln Ave. in Aurora or at Hernandez’s constituent services office, located at 540 W. Galena Blvd. in Aurora.

Hernandez has been a strong advocate in the fight to end period poverty. During the last legislative session, she helped pass legislation that will allow for public benefit recipients to buy products with their respective benefits, and for menstrual products to be free in the bathrooms at homeless shelters, in schools and on college campuses.

“In hosting this donation drive each year, I am grateful when community members come together and help out our neighbors who need it the most,” said Hernandez. “I encourage those who can do so to make a donation, small or large, and help someone in need.”

For more information on this legislation or about this event, individuals can contact Hernandez’s constituent service office at 630-270-1848 or email RepBarbaraHernandez@gmail.com.