DAVENPORT, IOWA (May 1, 2025) — The Junior League of the Quad Cities is proud to announce the launch of The Period Project, an initiative aimed at addressing period poverty by providing free menstrual hygiene products to local schools and nonprofit organizations throughout the region.
The Period Project supports individuals who struggle to access basic period products due to financial hardship, housing instability, or lack of awareness. Through a collaborative distribution network, the Junior League will supply pads, tampons, and other essential products to trusted community partners, including schools, shelters, and service agencies, who ensure they reach those most in need.
“Menstrual products are a necessity, not a luxury,” said BettyJo Versluis, VP of Community for the Junior League of the Quad Cities. “No one should have to miss school, work, or daily activities because they cannot afford period supplies. The Period Project is our commitment to dignity, health, and equity for all.”
The Period Project launch is in part to a generous donation from the Bettendorf Rotary Club.
The online request form for the Period Project officially went live in March allowing local schools and nonprofits to request essential period supplies like pads, tampons, underwear, and leggings. The response was overwhelming — we delivered over 400 items to grade schools, junior highs, high schools, and area non-profits.
But the need isn’t slowing down; we can’t do it alone. Help us keep the Period Pantry stocked so no one has to go without the essentials they need.
Our spring drive runs now through May 31, but donations will be accepted year-round to help meet the ongoing needs of our community.
The Need: National and Local Context
Two in five people who menstruate have struggled to afford period products at some point in their lives.
One in four teens in the US has missed class because they didn’t have access to period supplies.
In low-income households, more than 50% of individuals who menstruate have had to choose between buying food or period products.
In the Quad Cities region, where economic disparities and housing instability remain persistent challenges, the need for equitable menstrual care is acute. The Period Project is a step toward eliminating stigma and ensuring every individual has access to the essentials they deserve.
How the Project Works:
The Junior League collects product donations and monetary contributions from individuals, community drives, and business sponsors. These resources are then packaged and distributed to partner sites including:
Local school districts and school nurses, youth-serving non-profits, emergency shelters, domestic-violence programs, food pantries, and health clinics. Each partner helps normalize conversations around menstruation while ensuring individuals can access what they need with privacy and respect.
Get Involved:
The Junior League of the Quad Cities invites community members to support The Period Project in the following ways:
Donate period products or contribute financially via givebutter.com/PeriodJLQC.
Host a collection drive at your workplace, school, or faith community
Partner with us to distribute supplies or raise awareness
To learn more or get involved, visit jlqc.org.
About the Junior League of the Quad Cities
The Junior League of the Quad Cities is a non-profit organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through effective action and leadership. Through advocacy and service, the League addresses critical issues impacting women and families in our region.
