BRAWS - Bringing Resources to Aid Women's Shelters

Specific Need

Access to period supplies is a basic need for women. Yet, 2 out of 5 women in the US struggle to afford these necessities, forcing them to do without or to use unsafe makeshift solutions. This impacts their health –physical and mental – and educational and economic success. One-third of low-income women report missing school, work, or other commitments due to lack of menstrual supplies. In response to this issue, since 2015 BRAWS has provided 6 million pads, tampons, and undergarments to women in need, supporting their health and stability. BRAWS partners with 15 community organizations in Loudoun County - shelters, food pantries, schools, and other service providers - to ensure these essential resources reach the women in greatest need.

A $25 DONATION

Can Purchase One Package of New Underwear and a Box of Pads or Tampons

A $50 DONATION

Can Purchase One High Quality Adult Bra and Two Extra Large Boxes of Pads or Tampons

A $100 DONATION

Can Purchase Four High Quality Adult Bras

A $200 DONATION

Can Purchase a sports bras, underwear and pads for 10 preteens in a local Middle School

A $350 DONATION

Can Purchase one bathroom dispenser with free pads and tampons for local high school students to use during the school day.

Mission

BRAWS' mission is to empower and bring dignity to women and girls by providing new undergarments and menstrual supplies to increase health and well-being, support economic and educational success, and aid in achieving stability. www.supportBRAWS.org

Profile

Menstrual supplies are among the most requested items by disadvantaged women and girls, yet they are seldom donated, expensive for shelters and schools to provide, and cannot be purchased using government assistance programs like SNAP or Medicaid.

BRAWS is the only organization in Loudoun County that is dedicated exclusively to supplying menstrual products and new undergarments to women and girls in need.

BRAWS distributes these essential resources through partnerships with local community organizations, including shelters, schools, and food banks. The women and girls we serve are typically:

1) Receiving supportive housing (domestic violence shelters, family & emergency shelters, and transitional housing);

2) Obtaining social safety net services in school;

3) Experiencing food and housing insecurity and receiving support from local food banks and community pantries;

4) Recovering from substance use disorder;

5) Formerly incarcerated and receiving resources to re-enter society successfully;

6) Transitioning in and out of the foster care system;

7) Seeking emergency relief.

BRAWS is committed to making menstrual supplies accessible to all. We fulfill our mission with the support of generous grants and cash donations, in-kind donations of menstrual products and undergarments, and the critical gift of volunteer time.