Menstrual Equity Is a Basic Human Right

In Cuba, severe shortages of menstrual products force many women and girls to rely on the black market, where the cost of basic menstrual supplies can consume nearly 30% of a monthly salary. Faced with limited availability and unaffordable prices, many are forced to choose between menstrual hygiene and other essential needs.

Access to safe, affordable menstrual products is not a luxury—it is a basic human right. Every woman and girl deserves the dignity, health, and opportunity that come with being able to manage her period safely. Today, we partner with local women's organizations to distribute donated disposable and reusable menstrual pads to women and girls in Havana.

As we look to the future, we are developing a new initiative in partnership with the Cuban company Clandestina, to explore launching a reusable pad industry in Havana. This project aims to create a sustainable, locally produced source of affordable menstrual products while supporting women entrepreneurs, creating jobs, and strengthening local communities.

With your support, we can move this vision from planning to reality. Every donation helps us expand access to menstrual products today while investing in long-term, community-led solutions for tomorrow. Together, we can help ensure that no woman or girl has to choose between her health and her basic needs.

Images documenting the distribution of 7,500 donated menstrual products to women in Centro Havana, supported by the Students’ Union Okanagan of UBC. The initiative helped improve access to essential menstrual supplies through local community networks.

Watch a short reel about the impact of donated menstrual products from Students' Union Okanagan of UBC