News - October Donation Drive to Benefit DIGNITY MATTERS
For the month of October, Sarah Bertochi - Handmade along with Serendipity Hudson, have teamed up to host a donation drive to benefit DIGNITY MATTERS.
What is DIGNITY MATTERS?
DIGNITY MATTERS is a non-profit organization that collects, purchases and supplies menstrual products, bras and underwear to women and girls who are homeless or disadvantaged, in order to help them stay healthy, regain self-confidence, and live with basic dignity.
People commonly associate period poverty with developing countries and are unaware it is a significant, hidden and local issue here in Massachusetts as well as nationally.
There are women and girls in almost every community, who cannot afford these necessities, and period protection items are not covered by SNAP benefits.
DIGNITY MATTERS commonly work with single mothers, migrants, low-income or homeless women, refugees, victims of domestic violence and LGBTQ youth.
Every month, clients face the humiliating reality of no access to period protection. Their dilemma of having to choose between buying food or menstrual care is common.
Menstrual products are expensive and needed monthly. Menstrual products are rarely donated to shelters, food pantries or public schools. Many shelters, food pantries, community colleges and public schools cannot afford, or do not provide, period protection for their clients. Bras, and new underwear are considered a luxury.
Sarah Bertochi - Handmade and Serendipity Hudson will have a donation box set up in store to collect any donations. Right now, tampons, pads, and underwear are most needed.
Below are the items that DIGNITY MATTERS collects:
Tampons, pads, liners, menstrual cups (any type, any brand. Open packages are acceptable if tampons, liners or pads are individually wrapped)
Underwear – MUST BE NEW in package or with tags. Any brand, type, or size
Bras – New or “like “new. Any brand, type (bralette, sports bra, regular bras), and size (larger sizes are most needed)
Incontinence pads and underwear