Justice Necessary’s “PeriodPalooza” event in Colorado draws attention to a growing issue: ensuring students have access to period products to stay in class.

In a move to tackle a pressing issue for students across Colorado, Justice Necessary hosted the “PeriodPalooza” event in Grand Junction on May 10, 2025, part of a series of five events held across the state this month. The initiative is designed to increase access to feminine hygiene products in public schools and ensure that students, particularly those in middle and high school, don’t have to miss class due to a natural health issue.

The importance of this cause is hard to ignore. With a reported 59% of teens in Colorado admitting that they struggle to afford period products, the need for accessible, free supplies has become clear. The event in Grand Junction served as a reminder that issues like these shouldn’t be overlooked, as they impact students’ ability to learn and succeed in their education.

A Statewide Effort: Distributing Millions of Products

The goal of Justice Necessary’s event wasn’t just to raise awareness, but to actually make a tangible difference. Over the course of May, the organization plans to distribute 2.5 million feminine hygiene products to 460 public schools across Colorado. This effort aims to make sure that teens have the products they need, when they need them, without the added stress of worrying about affordability or availability.

“The most important thing is that we’re removing barriers to education,” said Lindsey Rasmussen, a consultant with Justice Necessary. “When students have what they need, they can focus on learning and feel comfortable in class.”

By providing access to these products, the initiative aims to ensure that menstruation doesn’t become an obstacle to education for young people. The reality is that many students miss school every month due to the lack of access to basic hygiene items. This leads to both missed learning and unnecessary emotional distress.

Legislative Push: House Bill 24-1164

Justice Necessary’s efforts have not stopped at community events. The organization played a pivotal role in the passage of House Bill 24-1164 in 2024, which mandates that Colorado middle and high schools provide free period products in all female and gender-neutral bathrooms. By June 2025, the law expects to have period products available in at least 25% of applicable bathrooms in these schools.

Rasmussen pointed out that the legislation is a crucial step forward in ensuring that students who menstruate don’t have to face the stigma and inconvenience of having to find products on their own or go without them.

“It’s not just about access—it’s about removing the stigma associated with menstruation. Students should be able to talk about it and ask for help when they need it,” Rasmussen added.

The Larger Picture: Affordability and Access

While the legislative push is a significant win for many students, the issue remains one of affordability and accessibility. A study conducted by Justice Necessary in 2024 revealed that a staggering 59% of teens in Colorado struggle to afford period products, making it difficult for them to participate fully in school and other activities.

For many, the cost of products can be prohibitive, leading to a choice between buying other essentials or going without. This is why events like PeriodPalooza are so important, as they directly address the gap in accessibility for low-income students.

Rasmussen emphasized that the event is not just about handing out supplies—it’s about ensuring that students can stay in school without feeling embarrassed or uncomfortable. “This is about making sure students can get the education they deserve, without worrying about something as basic as having the supplies they need,” she said.

Bridging the Gap for Students

The impact of providing free feminine hygiene products extends far beyond just convenience. It’s about equal access to education. Students who don’t have the products they need often fall behind in school, which can have long-term effects on their academic success.

“We see this as an opportunity to break down barriers that might otherwise prevent students from attending school or performing at their best,” Rasmussen explained. “If they can stay in class, and stay focused, they have a better chance of succeeding in life.”

The Ripple Effect: Changing the Conversation

As the event continues its outreach, there’s also a broader goal at play: changing the way menstruation is talked about. Many teens still face embarrassment when it comes to their periods, and often, this leads to missed opportunities for support. The PeriodPalooza event isn’t just about giving out products; it’s about breaking the silence and making it clear that menstruation is a normal part of life.

“By bringing this conversation into the open, we help create an environment where teens feel empowered to speak up and ask for help,” Rasmussen said. “The more we talk about it, the less stigma there will be.”

As more schools implement free access to period products, it’s hoped that this issue will become less of a burden and more of a conversation, one where students can feel comfortable, supported, and able to focus on what truly matters: their education.