Dignity Matters

Dignity Matters is a Massachusetts-based non-profit organization founded in 2016 to combat period poverty. The organization was started by Kate Sanetra-Butler after a chance encounter in Boston's Copley Square with a homeless teenager who asked for a tampon. This experience led Sanetra-Butler to research the issue, discovering that menstrual products are not covered by SNAP benefits and are rarely donated to shelters, creating a significant barrier for women and girls in need.

The organization operates on a model of collecting, purchasing, and distributing essential items, including menstrual care products, underwear, and bras, free of charge to women, girls, and other individuals who are homeless or from low-income households. To scale its impact, Dignity Matters transitioned from relying solely on in-kind donations to a more sustainable model that includes purchasing products in bulk directly from manufacturers at a significant discount. This strategic shift allows the organization to provide a consistent and reliable supply of necessities to its partners.

Dignity Matters serves its clients through a collaborative network of over 170 partner organizations, including homeless shelters, food pantries, public schools, community colleges, and domestic violence centers across Massachusetts. This distribution method ensures products are delivered in a planned and respectful manner to those who need them most. Each month, the organization supports over 17,000 individuals, having distributed more than 3.8 million items in 2024 alone. Beyond direct aid, the organization also engages in advocacy efforts to mandate free menstrual products in all Massachusetts schools, prisons, and shelters.

Keywords: period poverty, menstrual equity, hygiene assistance, women's health, homeless support, community outreach, non-profit, feminine hygiene products, essential supplies, Massachusetts charity, underwear donation, bra donation, social welfare, vulnerable populations, women empowerment, public health, donation distribution, basic needs, community partnership, health and wellness