Wonder Girls Empowerment Program Stands with Rockland County’s Menstrual Equity Movement
In communities across the country, conversations surrounding menstrual health are becoming more open, inclusive, and action-oriented. In Rockland County, New York, local leaders and advocates are taking meaningful steps to address period poverty and promote menstrual equity — and the Wonder Girls Empowerment Program proudly supports this important initiative.
The Rockland County Department of Health (RCDOH) and the Rockland County Menstrual Equity Workgroup are recognizing May as Menstrual Health Awareness Month, with May 11–17 observed as Period Poverty Awareness Week and May 28 celebrated globally as Menstrual Hygiene Day. These observances help raise awareness about the urgent need to eliminate stigma, improve education, and ensure access to menstrual products for all who need them.
The Wonder Girls Empowerment Program believes that empowering girls begins with protecting their dignity, health, and confidence. Supporting menstrual equity is not only about providing products — it is about creating environments where young women feel seen, supported, and equipped to thrive without shame or limitation.
Addressing period poverty and women’s health is a major part of the Wonder Girls curriculum and community service initiatives. Participants create and donate emergency menstrual hygiene kits for school and community bathrooms while also writing letters to lawmakers to raise awareness and advocate for policy changes surrounding menstrual equity.
Period poverty remains a significant public health and social issue. Many individuals struggle to afford sanitary products or lack access to safe hygiene facilities and accurate menstrual health education. These barriers can lead to missed school days, workplace absences, emotional distress, and long-term inequities. Studies show that nearly 30% of girls miss school during their periods due to a lack of access to menstrual products and fear of embarrassment or accidents while at school.
“Every girl deserves access to the resources, education, and support she needs to feel confident and empowered,” said Natalie Maniscalco and Irene Robles, co-founders of the Wonder Girls Empowerment Program. “Menstrual equity is not just a health issue — it is an issue of dignity, opportunity, and equality. We are proud to stand alongside Rockland County and our local schools in raising awareness and helping break the stigma surrounding menstruation.”
In May 2025, the RCDOH partnered with the Suffern Rotary Club’s Period Product Initiative to launch the Rockland County Menstrual Equity Workgroup. Since its formation, the workgroup has united community organizations, advocates, healthcare professionals, and local leaders to share resources, educate the public, and develop solutions to combat period poverty throughout Rockland County.
“Menstrual health is an important part of overall health,” said Dr. Mary Leahy, Rockland County Commissioner of Health. “No one should miss school, work, or daily activities because they don’t have the products or information they need. When we improve access, we support the health of our whole community.”
The Wonder Girls Empowerment Program applauds these efforts and has officially joined the RCDOH and Suffern Rotary Club’s Period Product Initiative, encouraging additional community members and organizations to join the movement. Raising awareness, supporting educational initiatives, donating menstrual products, and advocating for policy changes are all ways the community can help make a lasting difference.
Wearing red and pink in solidarity, members of Wonder Girls joined the Rockland County Menstrual Equity Workgroup in support of its menstrual equity and period poverty presentation during the Rockland County Legislature’s Special Committee on Health and Wellness meeting held in New City. Menstrual Hygiene Day is officially recognized worldwide on May 28.
Together, organizations, leaders, and community members are helping build a future where no girl or woman is held back because of menstruation. Through education, advocacy, and compassion, Rockland County is taking meaningful steps toward becoming a truly #PeriodFriendlyWorld.