The first pantry, located inside Ruth’s Roots Community Garden at 130 Court Street, Bay St. Louis
Theresa Wagner, founder and executive director, says Period Pantries Gulf Coast was established in 2025 after a problem came to light: how many people in the community struggle to afford basic menstrual products.
“We realized there were very few local resources specifically addressing period poverty, and we wanted to create a simple, accessible way for people to get the products they need with dignity,” Wagner explains.
Here, she tells us more about the initiative.
WHAT IS PERIOD PANTRIES GULF COAST’S MISSION?
Period Pantries Gulf Coast is working to help end period poverty by providing free access to menstrual products, raising awareness and empowering individuals through community partnerships, education and compassion. We believe that no one should have to choose between necessities and menstrual health.
HOW DID PERIOD PANTRIES GULF COAST COME ABOUT?
We were founded after recognizing the need for accessible menstrual products in our community. Since then, we’ve grown through community support.
WHO ARE THE LEADERS IN YOUR ORGANIZATION?
We currently have three members, including myself, secretary Jessica Holland and treasurer Tiffany Lamey.
WHAT’S NEW AND EXCITING WITH PERIOD PANTRIES GULF COAST?
We’re expanding the number of period pantries, hosting donation drives and participating in community events to increase awareness and access.
HOW IS YOUR ORGANIZATION MAKING A POSITIVE IMPACT?
We help ensure that no one must go without essential menstrual products because of financial hardship while reducing stigma through education and outreach. By providing free menstrual products, we help women and girls stay healthy, attend school or work and maintain their dignity.
WHAT ITEMS DO YOU COLLECT, AND HOW CAN PEOPLE CONTRIBUTE?
We collect new, unopened menstrual products including:
- Pads
- Tampons
- Menstrual cups
- Period underwear
Product donations may be dropped off at our pantry locations:
- 130 Court St., Bay St Louis
- 630A Washington Ave., Ocean Springs
- 15024 MLK Jr. Blvd., Gulfport
Contributions also may be made via GoFundMe or our Amazon Wishlist.
WHAT IS THE DEMAND FOR THESE ITEMS ON THE COAST, AND HOW CAN PEOPLE IN NEED ACQUIRE THEM?
The demand has been steady and continues to grow as more people learn about our pantries. Menstrual products are a necessity, yet many individuals and families struggle to afford them. Anyone in need can simply visit one of our period pantries and take what they need — no questions asked.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOPES AND GOALS FOR PERIOD PANTRIES GULF COAST?
Our goal is to place more period pantries across the Gulf Coast, build community partnerships and make menstrual products accessible to everyone who needs them.
WHAT ELSE SHOULD WE KNOW ABOUT PERIOD PANTRIES GULF COAST?
Period poverty affects people every day, but it’s a problem our community can solve together. Every donation, volunteer, and partnership helps make a lasting difference.