Menstruating is a natural thing. Yet, many people still do not have the resources to get through their periods safely, comfortably, and with dignity. We call this problem period poverty. And although it is receiving more and more attention, it remains an invisible issue for many.
At Moodies, we believe that no one should have to worry about access to menstrual products. That is why we donate a portion of our revenue to initiatives committed to combating period poverty in the form of period underwear. One of those organizations is the Belgian organization Bruzelle, which works daily to support people facing this issue.
Recently, together with our Belgian retail partner Veritas, we were able to make a donation to Bruzelle for the third year in a row. We spoke with them about period poverty, its impact, and what a donation like this means to them.
What is period poverty?
Period poverty means that someone has insufficient access to the products, information, or facilities needed to menstruate safely and comfortably. It is therefore not just about a lack of sanitary pads or tampons, but also about a lack of knowledge, guidance, and access to proper sanitation. (Nijmegen Administrative Information)
The consequences can be significant. People stay home from school, miss lessons or work, and experience stress, shame, and insecurity. In the Netherlands, about 1 in 8 menstruating people struggle to access menstrual products. (Poverty Fund)
A double taboo
According to Bruzelle, there is still a major taboo surrounding period poverty.
"It is a double taboo," they explain. "On one hand, it is about menstruation, which not everyone talks about openly yet. On the other hand, it is about a lack of money and poverty. These are two subjects that people often find difficult to talk about."
Precisely for this reason, period poverty often remains hidden. Many people feel ashamed or are afraid to ask for help, even though the problem is much more common than we think. (Plan International)
Period poverty is everywhere
Bruzelle notices daily that period poverty is still a major problem in Belgium.
"We see that menstrual products are not available everywhere, for example in schools. Some young people do not have sufficient access to menstrual products at home. In addition, there is often a lack of good information about menstruation. Many young people do not know what is normal and what is not."
That lack of products and knowledge ensures that period poverty goes much further than just a financial problem. It also affects health, education, self-confidence, and opportunities.
What does Bruzelle do?
Bruzelle is a Belgian non-profit organization that fights against period poverty.
They do this in various ways. They provide education in schools about menstruation and ensure that menstrual products reach the people who need them. In addition, they work with social organizations to make both disposable and reusable menstrual products more accessible.
Their mission is simple but powerful: to ensure that no one is limited by a lack of menstrual products or knowledge.
What does a donation like the one from Moodies mean?
Our recent donation to Bruzelle consisted of period underwear and period swimwear that they can distribute among young people in need.
For Bruzelle, that makes a big difference:
"Normally, we mainly hand out sanitary pads. Thanks to a donation like this, we can also offer reusable products. That means young people can use the same product month after month. Additionally, it provides freedom of choice. Everyone is different, and it is important that people can discover which product suits them best."
We believe that freedom of choice is crucial. What works well for one person does not necessarily have to be the best solution for another. By making various menstrual products available, more people can find a solution that fits their body, lifestyle, and situation.
Why Moodies is committed to fighting period poverty
From the start of Moodies, we have believed that menstrual products are not a luxury item, but a basic necessity. That is why we donate 5% of our revenue to initiatives that help combat period poverty in the form of our menstrual products. Through this, we support various organizations in the Netherlands and Belgium that work daily for people who need help.
Every donation shows that we can make an impact together. Not only by making products available, but also by starting the conversation and breaking the taboo.
What does Bruzelle want more people to know?
Bruzelle did not have to think long for that question:
"That period poverty is much more common than people think. In Flanders, it affects about 1 in 8 people. In Wallonia, it is as high as 1 in 3. Those are enormous numbers. It could be the girl sitting next to you in class or someone at your work. That is why we need more attention for this and must learn to take it into account more."
A powerful message that shows why raising awareness remains so important.
Together we make a difference
Period poverty is not always visible, but it is certainly present. By working together with organizations like Bruzelle, we can contribute to more access, more freedom of choice, and more opportunities for people who menstruate.
Because no one should have to miss lessons, work, sports, or social activities because menstrual products are not accessible.
Together we can make the difference. One conversation, one donation, and one pair of underwear at a time.
