Improving the Lives of Girls and Women


Dignity Grows

Dignity Grows empowers our neighbors in need by providing menstrual and hygiene supplies for every body that needs them. As women, we know when we support our sisters, we lift each other up and amazing things happen.

Founded by the Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford’s Women’s Philanthropy and supported by National Women’s Philanthropy of Jewish Federations of North America, Dignity Grows provides monthly personal and feminine products to women, girls and individuals assigned female at birth, who cannot afford them. In collaboration with local distribution partners, Dignity Grows removes obstacles to better self-esteem and improved health through the security and comfort of having hygiene essentials every month.

The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore is proud to launch a chapter of Dignity Grows, joining other federation communities across the country to address this critical issue.

Embodying the Jewish values of Tzedakah (righteousness) and Tikkun Olam (repairing the world), The Associated is proud to partner with other organizations committed to meeting this need in the Jewish and greater Baltimore community.


The Problem

Imagine having to choose between buying food for your family or buying pads/tampons for your period. Imagine you have just used your last pad or tampon and have no money to purchase more.

This is a reality for many. Every month, some of our neighbors feel a sense of helplessness and embarrassment because they lack necessities. These feelings of shame have consequences. Girls stay home from school during their periods and miss critical learning time. Women miss work, which can lead to lost wages. This further compounds the cycle of poverty.

Feminine hygiene necessities are not covered by SNAP, WIC or other welfare programs, and are rarely available at food pantries. As a result, countless people are left without products that many of us take for granted. Most states still tax these products. Women know that no one should feel ashamed of her body and the natural rhythm of being female.

Having basic female necessities is life-changing, increasing one’s sense of self-worth and respect. Girls and women gain confidence and thrive when they can engage in daily activities without worrying about their periods.


Our Approach

At Dignity Grows we provide menstrual products and hygiene supplies to girls and women in need so that they can fully participate in their daily activities.


The Dignity Totes

Packed in reusable, branded zipper-top totes, each Dignity Tote is filled with a month’s supply of:

  • Sanitary Pads and Panty Liners
  • Shampoo
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Deodorant
  • Handwipes

For as little as $10, you can donate a Dignity Tote to a neighbor in need, helping her to be more productive while safeguarding her dignity.



Volunteer

Volunteers are the heart and soul of Dignity Grows. At packing parties, you will experience the joy of bonding with other likeminded women and the gratification that comes from knowing you are improving someone’s life in a small, but essential manner.

Get involved by hosting a packing party, helping at a packing party, connecting us with recipients in the community or getting the word out about Dignity Grows in Baltimore.


Questions? Contact Melinda Michel at mmichel@​associated.​org or 410-369-9289.


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