By Sabrina Browne & Eiko La Boria, The Flow Initiative
This year, The Flow Initiative is proud to work with Happy Box, a company that not only understands the importance of this cause but is also helping us make a tangible impact in the lives of those affected by period poverty. On October 11th, 10% of all website sales* from happyboxstore.com will be donated to The Flow Initiative.
As we approach Period Action Day on October 12, The Flow Initiative reflects on its unwavering commitment to eradicating period poverty—a mission that has guided our journey since our inception in 2019.
The Flow Initiative: A Journey of Purpose and Progress
The Flow Initiative began as more than just a response to an unmet need; it was a call to action. Our founder, Eiko La Boria recognized that period poverty is not merely a matter of access to menstrual products—it’s a symptom of broader systemic inequities that marginalize vulnerable populations. From the beginning, she sought to tackle these inequities head-on, combining direct action with programs, partnerships, and change.
- 2019: Our roots took hold in communities that were often overlooked—where young students missed school due to a lack of menstrual products and where people faced the choice between buying food or buying pads. We started by building relationships, listening to the voices of those most affected, and distributing menstrual products where they were needed most. But we knew that distributing products was only the beginning.
- 2020: The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic was a stark reminder of the fragility of access to essential items. As the world grappled with uncertainty, the demand for our services skyrocketed. In response, we collaborated with The Hoboken Girl to launch a period product drive to support communities across Hudson County. This initiative not only supplied products but also fostered a sense of dignity and empowerment among recipients, who were often forced to navigate their periods in silence.
- 2021: Our work in 2021 was marked by a shift from grassroots action to strategic partnerships. We brought on Sabrina Browne — global menstrual health advocate and Fortune 500 client advisor — as a partner at The Flow Initiative and began to scale our brand and corporate partnerships. We collaborated with U By Kotex, Kimberly Clarke, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, Alliance For Period Supplies, and more.
- 2022: This year, The Flow Initiative reached new heights with the launch of our national Menstrual Health and Equity Summit. Bringing together leaders from across sectors, the summit was a platform for sharing best practices, identifying new opportunities for collaboration, and driving the national conversation on menstrual equity forward.
- 2023: We collaborated with legislators and advocacy groups to push for policies that would make menstrual products freely available in public schools and shelters. These efforts culminated in the passing of Bill A1349 — critical legislation in New Jersey — marking a significant milestone in our mission to create lasting change.
- 2024: As we continue to expand our reach, we recognize the need for data to inform our strategies. Partnering with Planned Parenthood, we are now conducting the first comprehensive survey on period health in New Jersey. Armed with this data, we plan to launch state-wide resources to help increase period health education in 2025.
Period Poverty: An Urgent Public Health Crisis
Period poverty is not just a lack of access to menstrual products; it is a public health crisis that demands immediate attention. It affects millions of people across the United States, many of whom are already facing other forms of economic and social hardship. The consequences are far-reaching: students who miss school, workers who lose income, and individuals who suffer in silence due to the stigma associated with menstruation.
This crisis is exacerbated by the fact that period poverty is often invisible—its effects are felt behind closed doors and in hushed conversations. Yet, the impact is undeniable. It perpetuates cycles of poverty, limits educational and economic opportunities, and contributes to ongoing health disparities.
The Role of Corporate Allies: How Happy Box and Others Can Help
At The Flow Initiative, we are committed to breaking this cycle by addressing the root causes of period poverty and advocating for policies that ensure menstrual equity for all. We are inspired by the dedication of our partners, including Happy Box, who recognize that period poverty is not just a women’s issue—it’s a human issue. Together, we can create a future where menstrual equity is a reality for all, and where no one is left behind because of something as natural as menstruation.
Join us, support us, and stand with us on October 12 and beyond. Because when we address period poverty, we are not just distributing products—we are restoring dignity, equality, and hope.
*donation resulting in sales from on-site, self-serve purchases only, not bulk, client portal or off-site corporate purchase or ongoing orders