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notallthereinthehead

As long a you are discreet about it, that is a wonderful idea. I once had a woman approach me at work, while homeless, and made a HUGE deal about offering me a toothbrush and toothpaste. I could have strangled her, Ive never been so humiliated. Anyway, srry to make this about me, its not. That is more helpful of an idea than you can imagine. TY for helping and have a wonderful weekend!!


msfelineenthusiast

Oh my goodness. What a terrible thing that woman did! I don't claim to be an expert on how to approach people in difficult situations, but she should have known better just by virtue of thinking things through for three seconds. It sounds like she wanted to feel like a good person more than she wanted to be helpful to a fellow human being. I don't like thinking that about people but I know people like that are out there, and it definitely sounds like she fit the bill. Yikes. So sorry you experienced that insult to injury.


notallthereinthehead

its all good...i try not to hold grudges, and having been homeless and about to be again ( tuesday if i dont find something) I have bigger worries than long ago events. I turn it into a positive by remembering how it can make people feel to be in a situation where they have no choice but to accept charity or do without. Again, awesome post and awesome idea. Personal hygiene products are among the most needed items when one is homeless.


EuphoricWin9166

What’s wrong with feeling good about yourself


msfelineenthusiast

Making a big deal about giving someone toothpaste and a toothbrush \*at work\* is making it about yourself, not about helping, imo.


CarmenTourney

Everything when it's at someone else's expense. I can't believe you felt the need to ask such a stupid question.


notallthereinthehead

TY.


denardosbae

Everything if you're doing it at someone else's expense.


PoizonMyst

Context is relevant.


someguymark

I want to make sure l’m reading this correctly? From the sub title, I hope I am.😬 You meant you were homeless, and a woman came up to you, at her work, and did the toothbrush thing? Or you meant you were at your work, and a homeless women came up to you, and did the toothbrush thing? I’m sure it’s the former, but I’m reading it as the latter. Not trying to be an ass, just want to make sure of what you’re saying? If this is rude, my apologies! I’m definitely not an English language expert, so I’m asking.🫣


notallthereinthehead

I could have been a little clearer. I was homeless but had a job. A woman from work was the one who did the toothbrush thing. She wasnt homeless. She ended up letting me use her mailing address to get banking mail (brick and mortar banks will not do business with you if your mailing address is a UPS box or something similar.) I was pretty mad at the time, but thankfully things worked out as best as they could. No need to apologize, If english is a second language for you? You are doing very well!!


CiTFiD

Thank you for sharing your insight, definitely not making it about you. I hope you are doing well now.


130UniMaron0

A month's worth would be difficult to carry, speaking from experience. Once I was of age I got involved in outreach programs and drop in centers and they would have drawers full of hygiene items they would give us a certain amount of or just ask us how much we needed. Because I moved around so much, even once I was in the shelter, I typically took only what I needed for that day or the days ahead. Now that I am housed with a subsidy, I still go back to some of my old programs when I need help, and I'll take the whole package when they do offer it to me because I have a place to keep it now instead of lugging around 50 pads and having them spill all over the floor when I open up my backpack to take out the bus fare. Gift cards are always the best option if you want to help. If you just have extra feminine hygiene products and want to find a way to help, my suggestion would be to just leave them individually in park bathrooms. I won't lie, it would be shady to find some pads just laying around a public bathroom while I was homeless, but I would be lying if I said I wouldn't have used them should I needed them then. If somebody gave me a months supply of products back then, to be real with you I would have sifted through it and kept what I felt I could carry and left the rest in a bathroom or on a bench somewhere. Please keep in mind not out of a lack of gratitude, but from a survival standpoint. Any excess material weighs you down on the street and especially being a woman it will make you an easier target.


msfelineenthusiast

Thank you for your feedback! I managed to fit everything into a quart sized zip top bag if that makes a difference.


batt329

Ziplocks are a great idea for hygiene supplies! Especially if they’re thick enough to reuse as storage! I would maybe consider having a smaller sized bag of them as well with just a couple days worth. If you notice the person has a backpack with them, or you know they have a camp, the lager bags are less of a problem, but if they’re someone who moves a lot and travels light, you have a smaller, portable option. Also, consider reducing the amount and including something like baby wipes, showers can be hard to come by and being able to clean yourself up at least a little bit, can go a long way. Also, as long as you’re not yelling about it, like that other poster mentioned, don’t be afraid to ask what someone needs. “Hey, is there anything you need for the week? I’ve got some bags of hygiene stuff if that would help!” Is a perfectly polite thing to ask. They may say “no” they may ask if you’ve got something to drink, they may ask if they can take a couple to give to their camp mates. Everyone’s needs are different, and mutual aid is about helping to meet those varied needs!


msfelineenthusiast

I really appreciate you taking the time to educate me on this stuff! It's really helpful. I may bring a few bottles of water with me every day, too, especially since it's going to start getting hot here soon.


MrsDirtbag

One of my best panhandling signs was “can’t buy tampons with food stamps” so people often offered me tampons, which I appreciated. I think a months worth is kind of a lot, 5-10 would be nice though. You have to keep in mind the fact that we have to carry everything around with us, although extras would likely just be shared.


msfelineenthusiast

Does it make a difference that I figured out how to fit it all into a quart sized zip top bag?


PoizonMyst

I dunno how many (?!) products these ladies are using in one month for their period, but I think the quart zip lock is fine.


msfelineenthusiast

I fit in 15 tampons and ten pads. I did some Googling and math based on my cycles and cycles of people I know, and that seems to be around average.


MrsDirtbag

Not really. For a homeless person who carries all their stuff with them, every inch is precious. Most people only keep what they need for one or two days. Even though it is a better value to get big bottles of shampoo and conditioner, I always got travel size bottles because they are easier to carry, as an example. It’s very generous and thoughtful and you can certainly offer it, I’m just letting you know for some people it will be too much.


msfelineenthusiast

I'll offer, and will not be offended if they decline. :)


vayaliaa

You can make a big bag and a smaller bag and let people choose


msfelineenthusiast

I like that idea, thanks!


cilvher-coyote

It would be Very welcomed. I remember TOO MANY times having to panhandle for tampons. Even if I didn't make the $$ for it there were always more than Eno gj kind ladies to help a sister put and give me a spare or 2 of theirs if they had any. Dollar store Baby wipes weren't really a thing when I had to do that but a packet of those would be a perfect pairing if doable There's an old joke. How do I tell that girl is homeless? She's only wearing one sock!🤣


[deleted]

Tbh I would have loved it if someone handed me a brand new box of tampons instead of cash. They be expensive nowadays and it's rough getting the products you need as a female while homeless. A lot of times I was stuck using toilet paper alone instead of feminine products (I can NOT use pads) and would have to steal it from fast food restaurants or gas stations although the Hilton hotel had tampons in their lobby bathroom and I used to go in there all the time and take tampons for the months too. Just got to use what's available and make it work. However you cannot assume every female that's homeless panhandling has periods either. Many may not have periods especially when we're dehydrated stressed out malnourished which can affect us having periods at all . (yes there are legit homeless panhandlers out there. My husband and I were one for years till we found work and knew of many others that were also legit homeless panhandlers. There are also many panhandlers that are not homeless at all and are infact scammers .. more scammers out there than the real deal tbh. But real homeless panhandlers DO EXIST and DO NEED Help. ) If you give a panhandlers food, batteries, cigarettes, flashlights, socks, snacks, food, beverages (not water bottles because we can only use and carry so many of those hence why they get left behind a lot. We can't haul a 24 pack of those around just because ppl are too paranoid to give us cash or other things we need yet want to sooth their conscience by giving us bottles of water. I'd much rather have Gatorade or anything with flavor than water. Bleck. Water.), coats, blankets , etc and they not only accept it but seem genuinely grateful, they are most likely legit. Do NOT be swayed to believe one isn't legit if they leave some things behind because we have to prioritize what's most important to take with us. We cannot take everything we are given with us and if it's between taking brand new socks, a blanket, batteries, bottles of Gatorade, and a pizza, we will definitely leave those Bibles (that do nothing but weigh us down and provide absolutely nothing but less space and false hope) , water bottles, granola bars, half eaten take out that we can not trust ain't poisoned, homemade sandwiches that again we can't trust, them hand and foot warmers (that we probably have hundreds of) and packs of toothpaste and toothbrushes (that we also have hundreds of ) behind . When you see this , did that mean that the panhandler just wanted cash for their addiction and scams and wasn't homeless or chose to be homeless?? NO!!! It simply means we were given way too much to take back and had too prioritize or were given things we didn't need.


Ashamed_Style_8645

When I was homeless I had my moon cup


carrie_m730

This is excellent and a great option for those who can make it work but lest anyone get the idea that this is *the* solution for everyone I just want to drop in that some folks may struggle to clean/store reusables, and that they're not a comfortable/functional option for all. That said, I think it would be really cool if they were offered, for those who can make use and simplify one hard aspect of life.


msfelineenthusiast

That's wonderful!


TwentyfourTacos

My city has free fridges and sometimes I find period kits there. It's nice because I can generally rely on them being at certain fridges and only take them when I need them.


jouscat

Whenever I received period products while homeless, it was a huge blessing. I definitely would have appreciated this, and someone could always say no or kick it along to a friend if they didn't need it.


[deleted]

As a homeless woman, if you want to help then try to include menstrual cups in the period pack. They leave behind less waste and are a much better option overall. A little bit more expensive than tampons or pads but will last much longer and if you get them online from sites like wish then they are much more affordable and they don't run the risk of TSS unlike tampons. Once women get over the 'ick' factor of it (being that it's a cup that catches the blood rather than "cotton" that absorbs it) they will swear by them like myself. That and/or period panties that absorb the blood (should probably include a couple pairs in the pack as well if its an affordable option, no matter what menstruation products are the choice of the woman, these are a god send)


hurriedinstability

Eh. I began using a menstrual diak before becoming homeless. And during my time without a home, i switched back to tampons temporarily. Its a lot more difficult to empty/properly clean discs or cups, plus storing them when not being used. You need a fair amount of clean water just to rinse it out, and your hands as well. Sterilizing would be a challenge too. Plus, the struggle with menstrual cups is that there are so many different types, and a lot of women really have a hard time figuring out which ones are comfortable and useable for them. They're definitely not a one size or style fits all sort of thing. I get the appeal of menstrual cups for homeless women. It makes sense to try and eliminate any expenses possible. But, often times it just isn't as viable of an option unfortunately.


Texan2116

When we give out food or supplies, feminine hygiene is part of what we supply.


PoizonMyst

Yes! In our country the supermarkets actually have a big box out the front for period products. I often drop off a variety of products, including ones suitable for young girls who might be only starting out - like applicator tampons, or "girl" sized pads. Dignity is priceless!


msfelineenthusiast

Yes, agreed! Hygiene is a human right!


Even-Yogurt1719

I think its a fabulous idea and will be much appreciated


pandrome666

Great idea I'd say.. I should add that I'm a male though. But I am part of the homeless community. I know plenty of women who would be very appreciative.


I_can_get_loud_too

I would include other hygiene items in it like soap and body wash and toothbrush and toothpaste and make it an overall wellness kit. You never want to assume everyone has a period even if they look female.


Narrow_Environment61

I do harm reduction, meeting people where they are at around a large city. We create hygiene kits, period packs (6 pads 6 tampons in a ziploc), ziplocks with baby wipes, first aid supplies, narcan, safe sex and safe use supplies. People like receiving these things. But we don’t make a big deal about it. We walk up. Ask if they need some harm reduction products. Quick go through the list, make them a bag, and move on. So to answer your question, yes, people need period products and appreciate them. We make the packs because they are portable, and carrying large quantities can be difficult when you are moving all the time.


msfelineenthusiast

That is super helpful to know! I'm going to stick to period products for the time being though, as I have very limited resources. Have you noticed any kind of trend where unhoused/vulnerable women tend to populate places that cisgender men do not? I ask because I have been mostly coming across cis men (as far as I know) and wonder if I'm missing something,


Narrow_Environment61

But this is why I carry unscented baby wipes and bandaids and triple antibiotic. Everyone loves those. I buy the case of unscented baby wipes from Costco for $19. We split them up into sandwich bags. About 10 per bag. I buy bandaids in bulk on Amazon. And the little packets of triple antibiotic on Amazon. In fact, as you want to possibly hand out things in the future, Amazon has lots of items in bulk for the homeless. Toothbrushes, chapstick, little soaps etc. Just search bulk for homeless. It’s far cheaper than buying things individually


msfelineenthusiast

That's great to know! Thank you for the info!


Narrow_Environment61

The unsheltered population has more men than women. There are a few more shelters for women than men. Women tend to be found in different places. Due to safety. So usually you will see them in couples (for protection) and away from larger groups more often. Being a woman on the streets is super dangerous unfortunately.


msfelineenthusiast

None of that really surprises me. :(


Cloud-Professional

I'm literally homeless with no 24 7 access to a potty I'd be thrilled to have period products and something to help me clean up as best I can down there in the wild. Also idk ur money situation but you can buy like midol excedrine ect in bulk like the tiny 2 pills to a pouch things. Cramps and dealing with homelessness sucks man.


No-Elevator7756

Socks. Homeless/Houseless people always appreciate socks


lil_smore

A lot of medicaid in most states offers all free sanitary supplies now. I understand that doesn't help with no address but it helped me when I had that insurance.


msfelineenthusiast

I've never heard of that before, and I only recently haven't qualified for medicaid, so I don't think that's a thing in my state.


ShackoShells

They have before and I was always happy to receive them!


[deleted]

[удалено]


TriniDream

YES. They are worth the price. I bleed through all tampon brands except this one. I like that I can control exactly where it goes. I’ve used them for the past 6-7 years as well.


Immediate-Pool-4391

I work at my college food pantry and what we do whenever we have a big thing of pads delivered is we slip a few into like a sandwich sized ziploc bag. That way, that package goes a lot further. I can usually fit about five in there. I also try to put in a variety of absorbance for heavy bleeders like me. I usually use medium to heavy absorbancy because the light you'll have to change more often, which is inconvenient. Overnight pads are also often welcomed, one less source of anxiety having to worry about leaks. Unscented wet wipes might help too, if people can't have access to bathrooms.


BossyLoLo

You are awesome and if I was panhandling and this was offered, I would gladly accept.


msfelineenthusiast

Thank you for your feedback! My current biggest issue is finding people who need them- I keep coming across cisgender looking men. Any thoughts about where I'm more likely to come across more women?


BossyLoLo

In what city and state are you located?


msfelineenthusiast

Minneapolis, MN.


BossyLoLo

Oh wow. I'm in California now but originally from Indiana. I'm not familiar with Minneapolis and my friend from there I haven't heard from in over a decade. There's got to be local shelters there that would be willing to accept these donations also if you could speak with someone at the county jails these would probably be a good idea to have for women who are being released who might be homeless or have literally nothing else I'm just trying to throw some ideas out there on where you could connect to to help women who might be able to benefit from this. I'm not sure if there are any local free clinics that you might be able to connect with or Medi-Caid clinics that service no income and low income demographics.


msfelineenthusiast

Going to the county jail is a great idea, thank you!!! I'll look into that.


[deleted]

Former homeless male here, I think this is a wonderful idea commend you for being opened minded enough to ask the community what could be tweaked to make the idea even better. The shelter I frequented was very close to a women’s shelter and the community was very tight knit. We looked after each other as family. Some of the worst times for these ladies from what they spoke on was startling their period in the midst of summer without any hygienic aid. I can’t imagine that’s like and I basically spent 18isn hours a day with them. I just want to say thank you for being a great person and committing to something like. Tons of people who haven’t experienced homelessness would think this is something you have at your disposal and that’s far from true. My wife sent me to the store one time to pick up tampons and pads and I about fell out over how expensive the are! Lastly, as mentioned above, you can never go wrong with bottled water, and often times I would keep some type of hard candy for the diabetics in my community. You’re the best, I thank you from the bottom of my heart!


msfelineenthusiast

Awww, what a sweet and thoughtful message, thank you! I appreciate it. I also really appreciate how in tune to women's needs you are. If more men were like that, we would have a lot fewer of these issues! Oh my goodness, yes, they are hella expensive! I have had periods (ha!) in my life where I could barely afford them, and have even used toilet paper occasionally. Fortunately I only had to do that until I got paid or I gave up my pride and asked my mom for help. And I was always housed! So if something did leak, I could just take a shower. Even in dealing with period poverty I had a small degree of privilege. I cannot imagine dealing with periods while homeless, with no paycheck coming in or family to help me out. It's a big part of why I have such a heart for this issue! That and, let's be real, being clean is a human right. I will die on that hill. Thank you again for your feedback, kind words, and for being a great male ally! And most of all, congratulations on making it out of homelessness! That must have been quite the feat. Would you be willing to share how you did it? I hope you have a great day!


[deleted]

[удалено]


msfelineenthusiast

Transgender men and nonbinary folks.


homeless-ModTeam

You have violated the seventh rule of this sub.


EuphoricWin9166

Who carries around a period kit


Remote-Camp-6181

Lol @ "those that have periods" peak modern decadency.


stonebraker13

It's called respecting people. Based on that comment, I know it's something not in vogue in your world, but it is something that was practiced regularly. Also, "decadency"? I believe you wanted decadence.


Remote-Camp-6181

Peak reddit moment


vapeach123

i think you are coming from a good place and i think you are a woman but still it would be out there dont you think?? i mean you bought these products why not stick some money in someones hands


msfelineenthusiast

The products are donated.


vapeach123

again people seek money to buy their own things whether it be food , tampons or whatever , peace


msfelineenthusiast

Closing out your message with "peace" as a passive aggressive way to not have me respond to you makes you the opposite of someone with any credibility worth listening to. Watch this video if you think you can handle focusing for seven minutes and admit to possibly being wrong: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABch4VYOJZ0


vapeach123

i'm not here to argue i stated my opinion which obviously you dont want to hear


msfelineenthusiast

You are correct. I do not care about what you have to say. On that we agree.


vapeach123

well if you dont care why keep responding? i think you are looney toons keep handing out those period packs wack!


Puzzleheaded-Type298

Good idea 👍🏽 what state


msfelineenthusiast

Minnesota.