ESTD 2024
Community Pathways' Menstrual Health Program
The Misson
Community Pathways believes menstrual hygiene is a human right, not a privilege. The mission of CodeRED is to establish an equitable, secure, and safe supply of menstrual products to all menstruating persons to alleviate period poverty in Steele County and surrounding areas.
What is CodeRED?
We are so glad you asked! CodeRED is our developing program dedicated to providing period hygiene products to all menstruating individuals that qualify for our services based on household income. The income guideline will be consistent with our other services, making all current and future members eligible to participate in CodeRED.
Kit Contents
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(1) Bottle of hand sanitizer
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(1) Package of Cottonelle Wipes
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(2) Doses of pain reliever
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Various educational materials/resources
Then, depending on your kit choice
Tampons: 10 L, 20 R, and 10 S (40 total)
Pads: 5 ON, 10 H, and 20 R (35 total)
Menstrual Cup: 1 PIXIE brand medical grade silicone cup (COMING SOON!)
Just the FACTS.
A 2021 survey by U by Kotex found that 2 in 5 people in the U.S. who menstruate have struggled to afford period products at some point in their lives. Period poverty is especially prevalent among low-income individuals, students, and those experiencing homelessness.
33% of CodeRED users report struggling to afford period products every month.
Federal programs like SNAP (food stamps) and WIC do not cover period products, creating an additional financial burden for those relying on these programs.
How YOU Can Help
Donations to CodeRED have the power to transform the fight against period poverty and break barriers to access for menstruators in need. By providing free period products, CodeRED ensures that no one has to choose between basic necessities and essential menstrual supplies. Each contribution directly helps reduce the financial burden on those struggling to afford products, allowing menstruators to maintain their health, dignity, and participation in daily life. Whether it’s attending school, going to work, or simply engaging in their community without the fear of inadequate hygiene, donations help us create a world where menstrual products are seen as a right, not a luxury. Together, we can change the tides of period poverty and support equitable access for all.
Your donation has POWER
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communitypathwayssc
Memo: CodeRED
Be an ADVOCATE
Becoming a period poverty ADVOCATE is a powerful way to help remove the stigmas and obstacles surrounding menstruation, ensuring that all menstruators have access to the products and education they need. Advocacy begins with understanding that period poverty is not just a financial issue but a social justice concern. It perpetuates inequality, keeps people from fully participating in their communities, and reinforces harmful taboos. Advocating for change means helping to normalize conversations about menstruation, breaking down the shame that often surrounds it, and pushing for policies that make menstrual products more accessible. As more people join this movement, we can collectively shift the narrative, empower menstruators, and work toward a future where period products are as readily available as other basic necessities.
Ways to Be a Period Poverty Advocate:
Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about period poverty, its impacts, and the obstacles to menstrual equity. Share this knowledge to break down taboos and raise awareness.
Support Menstrual Health Initiatives: Donate to or volunteer with organizations like CodeRED that provide free period products and education.
Advocate for Policy Change: Push for the removal of the tampon tax in states that still have it, and support legislation that includes period products in federal aid programs.
Engage on Social Media: Use your platforms to amplify the voices of those fighting against period poverty, share facts, and call for action.
Encourage Schools and Workplaces to Offer Free Products: Advocate for menstrual products to be available in public restrooms, schools, and workplaces to eliminate accessibility hurdles. Minnesota proudly leads the way, providing free menstrual products in schools, setting an example for other states to follow.
Foster Open Conversations: Talk about menstruation without shame or embarrassment, helping to normalize it in everyday discussions.
By becoming an ADVOCATE, you’re helping to create a more equitable, compassionate society where period poverty and stigma are no longer impediments to success and dignity.
Partners in Period Progress
Supporting our CodeRED partners is vital to the success and sustainability of our mission. Organizations like The Pad Project, Pixie Cup, Steele County Public Health, Planned Parenthood, and Our Saviors Lutheran Church play an essential role in providing the resources needed to supply free period products and education to our community. By standing behind our partners, you help us secure the funding, products, and outreach necessary to expand our services.
Additionally, supporting these partnerships allows us to strengthen our advocacy efforts, drive policy change, and create new avenues for menstrual equity. Together, we can continue to break down the barriers to access and work toward a future where every menstruator has the products and support they need, no matter their circumstances. Your contributions not only empower CodeRED but also uplift the incredible work of our partners, ensuring a stronger, more united front in the fight against period poverty.
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the pad project.
The Pad Project is a global non-profit organization dedicated to ending period poverty and empowering women and girls through menstrual equity. It provides education, resources, and sustainable menstrual products to communities in need, helping to break the stigma surrounding menstruation and ensure access to sanitary products for all.
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Steele County Public Health
Steele County Public Health is a local government agency focused on promoting and protecting the health of the community in Steele County, Minnesota. They provide a range of services, including health education, disease prevention, immunizations, maternal and child health services, and emergency preparedness, aiming to improve overall public health and quality of life for residents.
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Our Saviors Lutheran Church
We are deeply grateful to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church for their generous financial contribution, which played a crucial role in the launch of our CodeRED program. Their support provided us with the essential resources needed to get started and make a significant impact in our community.
Flow with Us!
Collective Action, Lasting Change.
#PARTNERS FOR PROGRESS AND PERIOD EQUITY
The RED Thread
Explore a curated collection of resources designed to support your health, well-being, and community connections. Whether you’re looking for educational guides, helpful links, or local services, follow the thread to find what you need.
Provides comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education, including information about menstruation.
the pad project
Offers resources about menstrual equity and health education.
A platform with research, resources, and information on menstrual health and hygiene practices globally.