Taylor DeBerry Turns Layoff into Period Product Aid

Losing a job can be a devastating experience, but for Taylor DeBerry, her layoff became the catalyst for a powerful mission. Faced with the challenge of affording essential items while unemployed, she realized a critical need: access to menstrual products shouldn’t be a luxury, especially during times of financial hardship. This realization sparked the creation of ‘Periods of Transition,’ a grassroots initiative aimed at providing dignity and support to women in need.

From Personal Struggle to Community Support

The inspiration struck DeBerry while she was in a Nevada dollar store, trying to make ends meet after being laid off. “I’m unemployed and still bleeding,” she recalled thinking. “If I’m going through this, there are so many other women and other people who menstruate as well and are going through the same thing.” This moment of empathy fueled her desire to ensure that no one has to compromise their dignity due to lack of access to period products.

Through ‘Periods of Transition’ – a name cleverly referencing both menstrual cycles and the phase of job loss – DeBerry distributes free, high-quality menstrual care kits. These kits are thoughtfully stocked with organic pads and tampons from trusted brands. The effort is driven by community support through an Amazon wishlist and GoFundMe campaign, embodying DeBerry’s belief that dignity should remain intact, regardless of employment status.

Impact and Growth in Six Weeks

The response to DeBerry’s initiative has been overwhelming. In just six weeks, ‘Periods of Transition’ has raised over $6,500 and successfully shipped 140 care packages, with an additional 250 individuals already on a waitlist. DeBerry and her mother have transformed her living room into a makeshift packing center, personally assembling and mailing each box.

DeBerry highlighted the often-taboo nature of both layoffs and menstruation, particularly for women and Black women. “No one wants to feel alone,” she stated, emphasizing the silence surrounding these issues. The drive directly addresses the growing crisis of period poverty, exacerbated by widespread layoffs this year, which have disproportionately affected Black women.

Addressing Urgent Needs and Future Aspirations

The stories shared by those seeking help are heart-wrenching. Some women have had to postpone job interviews due to the inability to afford pads, while others describe the anxiety of using makeshift solutions like toilet paper. DeBerry admits that reading these submissions can be emotionally taxing, but it reinforces her “why” and fuels her determination.

With the initial wave of care packages sent, DeBerry is now focused on scaling her efforts. She hopes to streamline the process and potentially establish local chapters nationwide, inspired by the outreach she’s already received. Her vision includes partnering with larger organizations to extend support to unhoused and incarcerated women, recognizing the essential role these women play in the economy.

DeBerry affectionately refers to the women she serves as her “Period Posse,” seeing them as the embodiment of her mission. “They’re the face of the brand. They’re the why. Without them, who would I be helping?” she shared, underscoring the profound human connection at the heart of her impactful initiative.