International Paper Global Cellulose Fibers Business Donates 1,000 Feminine Hygiene Kits to Combat Period Poverty

Each year, more than 40 million women and girls around the world are affected by period poverty – the lack of access to sanitary products, feminine hygiene education, toilets, handwashing facilities or waste management during menstrual cycles. Period poverty is a global issue that creates health risks, contributes to truancy in school and can lead to feelings of shame and fear.

International Paper employees at the company’s Global Cellulose Fibers (GCF) division volunteered to assemble more than 1,000 feminine hygiene kits to fight period poverty in their respective communities. Each kit contained feminine wipes, pads, and notes of encouragement for the young women receiving them. Kits were then placed in kraft paper bags produced by International Paper and distributed to schools and community organizations.

“International Paper is proud to partner with United Way Worldwide to provide resources to meet this often-overlooked area of need for young women and teens,” said Dr. Alissa Campbell-Shaw, senior manager, Community Engagement, International Paper and executive director, The IP Foundation.

GCF teams coordinated the packing events in a healthy and safe manner, recognizing the need to continue supporting critical needs in their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.