In recognition of Period Poverty Awareness Week May 20-28, the Berrien County Health Department is launching a survey to determine the level of period poverty in Berrien County as well as calling for donations of menstrual products.

Period poverty refers to challenges paying for menstrual supplies such as tampons, pads, liners or cups, which can cause girls and women to miss school, work and other activities.

BCHD’s Sexual Health Clinic has launched a survey to determine the need in Berrien County. Respondents must be county residents; all identities will be kept anonymous. Take the survey here.

According to the Alliance for Period Supplies, 1 in 4 teens in the U.S. has missed school because of a lack of access to period supplies. The Alliance notes 1 in 5 women with low income miss work or other commitments due to lack of access to period products.

In Michigan, 1 in 5 women and girls ages 12 to 44 live below the federal poverty line and may struggle to pay for rent, food and other basics, including period products. Michigan ended its tax on period products in November 2021.

During the month of May, BCHD is collecting period products it will make available to women and girls at its Benton Harbor and Niles offices. Community members can drop off boxes of new tampons, pads and liners as well as cups 8 a.m.-5 p.m. at:

2149 E. Napier Ave. in Benton Harbor

1205 Front St. in Niles

BCHD will also accept shipments from retailers for those who want to donate but are unable to visit either office.