Hernandez Collecting Menstrual Hygiene Products and Diapers, Encouraging Residents to Donate

AURORA, Ill. – To support local families in need, state Rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora, is collecting menstrual hygiene products and diapers to benefit the Aurora Area Interfaith Food Pantry’s Women’s Empowerment Pantry now until Dec. 10.

“Accessibility issues with menstrual hygiene products or diapers can cause many long-term, negative consequences for low-income families,” said Hernandez. “There are countless, complex issues facing families today, but being able to afford necessary supplies for your own health or your child’s health should not be one of them.

Hernandez is asking for donations of open or unopened packages of diapers in all sizes, baby wipes, baby food, formula, diaper bags, pads, tampons and panty liners. For a convenient contactless option, individuals can donate online via an Amazon Registry by visiting, bit.ly/womenspantry, or items can be dropped off at the following locations in Aurora:

• Hernandez’s District Office, 540 W. Galena Blvd., from Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Tredwell Coffee, 14 W. Downer Pl. #18, daily, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Endiro Coffee, 29 W. New York St., from Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Hernandez has been a strong advocate for increasing access to necessary products like diapers and menstrual hygiene products throughout her time in office. This past session, she championed several new laws that will allow for menstrual hygiene products to be purchased with public benefits and to be free of charge in schools, universities and food pantries. This upcoming legislative session, she will be working to pass a measure to allow menstrual products to be free of charge and available in all correctional facilities in Illinois.

“I am grateful for organizations like the Aurora Area Interfaith Food Pantry that are working tirelessly to help struggling parents and families, especially during these difficult times,” said Hernandez. “I will continue to advocate for families in the legislation I support, and will work to provide necessary supplies to local families in need. I encourage all those who can to consider donating during our supply drive.”

For more information, please contact Hernandez’s full time constituent service office by calling 630-270-1848 or emailing RepBarbaraHernandez@gmail.com.