San Jose Teen Collects Thousands of Period Products for Homeless

Miri Ahuja's donation drive aims to increase access and awareness around menstrual health.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 1:54pm

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Miri Ahuja, a 14-year-old freshman at Evergreen Valley High School in San Jose, California, recently collected and donated 4,278 period products to HomeFirst, a local organization serving people experiencing homelessness. Miri's "Period Positive Drive" featured a range of menstrual supplies, from pads and liners to specialized overnight wear, with the goal of ensuring dignity and comprehensive care for recipients.

Why it matters

Menstrual products are among the most requested but least donated items at homeless shelters nationwide. Miri's initiative aims to raise awareness about this issue and inspire others to support menstrual health access, especially for marginalized communities.

The details

Through her Period Positive Drive, Miri collected donations from brands like Always, Kotex, Tampax, and Rael Organic. The March 2026 drive resulted in 2,622 pads, 1,240 panty liners, 203 liners, and specialized items like overnight wear and hygiene wipes. Miri hopes her efforts will not only provide essential supplies, but also encourage more open conversations about menstruation.

  • Miri Ahuja collected the 4,278 period products in March 2026.
  • Miri donated the supplies to HomeFirst, a local organization serving the homeless in Santa Clara County.

The players

Miri Ahuja

A 14-year-old freshman at Evergreen Valley High School in San Jose, California, who organized a period product donation drive called the "Period Positive Drive".

HomeFirst

A local organization in Santa Clara County, California that serves people experiencing homelessness and received the 4,278 period products donated by Miri Ahuja.

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What they’re saying

“Everybody eventually needs a pad, and they might not be able to have the means to access, or afford the education that comes along with it. Donating ensures that everybody is aware and has access.”

— Miri Ahuja, Organizer, Period Positive Drive

“We just don't see much of this every day, especially for feminine hygiene products.”

— HomeFirst Representative

What’s next

Miri Ahuja plans to continue organizing period product donation drives in the future to further increase access and awareness around menstrual health.

The takeaway

Miri Ahuja's Period Positive Drive demonstrates how young people can make a meaningful impact in their communities by addressing overlooked issues like menstrual health access for the homeless. Her initiative inspires others to get involved and have open conversations about a topic that affects half the population.