The annual feminine product drive is taking place March 6 through March 17.
The feminist club is holding this drive to collect unopened boxes of pads, tampons, and panty liners.
“We put on this drive because although menstruating is a normal, healthy bodily function, unfortunately, a lot of young girls can’t afford to purchase supplies needed,” said a member of the feminist club and senior Maya Paulo. “Feminist club is trying to help low-income women and families who are in need of these basic necessities.”
The products will be going to Carlmont students as well as organizations throughout San Mateo County.
“A portion of the products will go to foster care and housing services, such as the Samaritan House,” said Paulo.
The Samaritan House is a non-profit organization that helps families living in poverty by offering food and shelter.
According to the organization’s website, their mission is to “mobilize the resources of our community to help those among us who are in need,” and their vision is “a community of hope through neighbor helping neighbor.”
As the drive is being held during gender equality week, March 6 to March 10, social issues surrounding equality have been brought up. Many students feel that the tampon tax, or a sales tax law in which feminine products are not tax exempt, is unfair.
“It bothers me that there are taxes on these essential items,” said Alyssa Feigelson, a senior. “Condoms are tax-free, but you have to pay extra for feminine products.”
The drive also shines a light on how students can support causes they believe in by helping women and girls in their own communities and throughout the world.
“I think this drive is a great way to positively impact our community,” said Georgia Van Amsterdam, a junior. “I think that by donating to these girls in need, we are able to give them confidence. I have begun to see the issue at hand with hygienic products and am looking at organizations and ways I can help.”
