A non-judgment, inclusive period pantry founded by Lawrence teens has gone mobile as organizers gear up for a fundraiser they hope will fill their new tricycle’s basket.
Founded in 2021, Honor Moon has reached several of its goals since its debut last fall. In partnership with Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health, Honor Moon has launched First Moon kits, which contain period supplies and information for young people experiencing menstruation for the first time.
Honor Moon also has gained designation as a 501c3 nonprofit organization and distributed thousands of menstrual supplies to those in need. And it will hold a fundraiser — Honor Moon Rising — Sunday, May 22.
“Periods are not something to be ashamed of and we hope this fundraiser will help us work towards our goal of destigmatizing periods,” Merrit Hale, director of supply and inventory, said in a news release.
A silent auction, live music, food, vendors and information booths are planned for the outdoor event, where the group will unveil its refurbished three-wheeled mobile period pantry. Honor Moon plans to use its basket to collect donations but might use the trike to also distribute products around town — maybe even during parades. First Moon stickers and kits also will be available in exchange for a donation. Those who donate will be entered into a raffle.
Margaret Mulhern, director of public relations, said periods are natural, therefore making menstrual products essential.
“Honor Moon strives every day to help better the cause to end period poverty. We could not do all that we do without the help of the Lawrence community and that is where Honor Moon Rising comes in. This event will help sponsor so many in need for something that is a basic human right.”
Members hope to collect a lot of donated items but also gain visibility. The mission of Honor Moon is to provide access to menstrual hygiene products to those who don’t have the means to purchase them or feel comfortable doing so, including people who identify as transgender or nonbinary.
“We are hoping the fundraiser will help us integrate further into the community and spread our movement,” Treasurer Olivia Hazlett said.
The fundraiser will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 22, in the parking lot at 512 E. Ninth St.
The period pantry is located north of Culinaria restaurant and in front of What a Little Birdy Told Me. The group asks attendees to bring period products for donation.
Honor Moon’s news release lists the following co-sponsors for the event: The Striped Cow, KU School of Social Welfare, LGBTQ+/DEI, KU Women in Law, Jefferson’s, Raintree Montessori School, Camp Birchwood for Girls, Doug Stremel, Third Plant and The Hazlett Family Foundation.
Learn more about Honor Moon on Instagram, @honormoonlfk, or by email at honormoonlfk@gmail.com.
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Tricia Masenthin (she/her), equity reporter, can be reached at tmasenthin (at) lawrencekstimes (dot) com. Read more of her work for the Times here. Check out her staff bio here.
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