NEW YORK – This Lenten season the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 302 West 91st Street in Manhattan, continues its charitable efforts with the Ladies Philoptochos Society participating in the Direct Archdiocesan District (D.A.D.) women’s personal care drive. Following the success of the Philoptochos diaper drive, the Annunciation Philoptochos Women's Personal Care Amazon Wish List will focus on helping women in need.

Sometimes the best way to address something difficult is to tackle it head on: It’s not hard to imagine that those who can’t afford food aren’t able to buy deodorant or shampoo, but chances are you haven’t heard that women without resources can’t afford menstrual products, or that families with girls ages 12-15 starting their journey into womanhood can experience what’s called “period poverty.”

A woman can’t attend a job interview or school if she can’t menstruate with dignity.

A True ‘Rebuild New York’ Story

Chantal Alison-Konteh was just 26 years old when she began putting together the non-profit called Her Village Inc. Then, 1 in 4 menstruating women in our country struggled to afford period supplies. Four years later, she opened her doors and the pandemic hit, but rather than threaten the organization’s success, it boosted it.

Her Village distributes Flo Kits with seven days of menstrual products labeled: “Period products for you packed by someone who cares about you. You matter!”

Her Village distributes Flo Kits with seven days of menstrual products for women in need. Photo: Courtesy of Annunciation Church Ladies Philoptochos Society

“We say it takes a village,” said Alison-Konteh, “but what does that mean? It means action; we have to BE the village.” In 2020, Her Village Inc. served 3,400 individuals thanks to donations like the ones the Philoptochos will make. In return, they get emails showing how much they are appreciated.

“Feeling clean, confident, and capable during one’s period, boosting reproductive health and mental health, is a gift we can give others,” said Susan Williams, Chair of the Annunciation Philoptochos Women’s Personal Care Drive. “If this story resonates with you, please visit the Annunciation Philoptochos Women's Personal Care Amazon Wish List. You know the person who receives your gift will be extraordinarily thankful. Thank you.”

More information is available online: shorturl.at/nwxQY.

For a tax receipt, email: [email protected].