For the second year in a row, Catholic Social Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia (CSS) is collecting feminine hygiene products to support women and girls who face obstacles to obtaining them.

The initiative, called “Take Back the Month,” aims to address wide-spread need and ensure that women and girls throughout the Philadelphia area who are unable to access or afford them due to poverty, homelessness, and other barriers have consistent access at no cost.

Last year, Catholic Social Services collected and distributed over 8,300 feminine hygiene and personal care products through this effort.

“No one should have to miss out on participating in work, school, or daily activities because they are unable to manage their menstruation in a safe and dignified manner,” said Amy Stoner, Director of CSS Community Based and Homeless Services.

Amy continued, “Through this initiative, Catholic Social Services is hoping to inspire change while working to start a conversation on menstrual health by bringing awareness to the immediate needs of women and girls in our communities.”

Those interested in supporting CSS can donate feminine hygiene items online through YouGiveGoods at https://yougivegoods.com/takebackthemonth.

Those interested in holding a collection of their own or donating new, unopened feminine hygiene items directly are asked to contact Amy Stoner at [email protected] and Cindy Volkert at [email protected].

All goods donated will benefit CSS’ housing and homeless programs including Mercy Hospice, McAuley House, Women of Hope, Visitation Homes, Mercy Café, and the Chester City Coffee Club.

Donated items will also benefit “Ladies Locker” pantries located at CSS Family Service Centers across the five-county Philadelphia region, as well as the CSS School Social Work Program that works with students, families, and staff within Archdiocesan High Schools. In addition, items will be distributed to those in need during staff outreach initiatives in local communities.   

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Editor’s Note: Catholic Social Services (CSS) of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia offers community-based and residential programs and services to support men, women and children in need as an expression of the charitable works of our local Church throughout the Greater Philadelphia area. To learn more about CSS programs that serve a wide variety of human needs, please visit https://cssphiladelphia.org/