Grassroots Success to Policy Implementation: The Momentous Accomplishments of Pink Box in Poland
In the heart of Poland, a grassroots organization called Pink Box is making waves in the fight against period poverty. The initiative, which began as a small movement, has grown into a major force, shaping policy, and breaking taboos around menstruation.
Pink Box, inspired by Scotland's 2021 Period Products Act, is working tirelessly to ensure universal access to free menstrual products. The organization's success lies in its ability to create opportunities for people to contribute, fostering connections and a sense of community.
Funded through an online fundraising program, Pink Box allows people, even with limited free time, to support the cause. The team's efforts have resulted in the launch of a pilot program in 500 schools, supplying menstrual products, and laying the groundwork for more comprehensive programs and potential legislation.
In addition to the pilot program, Pink Box is also developing an online 'Menstrual Academy'—a free resource for teachers, parents, and students. This initiative aims to educate and empower individuals about menstrual health, furthering Pink Box's mission to make menstrual products a basic right, like toilet paper or soap in public restrooms.
Pink Box has faced criticism, with some suggesting the inclusion of "blue boxes" for other hygiene products. However, the organization's focus remains on menstrual health, addressing the unique challenges and stigmas associated with menstruation.
Despite encountering online trolls and hateful comments, Pink Box has learned to ignore negativity and focus on constructive feedback. The team has leveraged prominent voices to reach young people and further galvanize support. They have also launched online petitions, gathering thousands of signatures in a short period.
As of December 2024, there were 17,000 Pink Boxes across Poland, filled with free pads and tampons. Pink Box is part of a global movement addressing menstrual health and poverty, working alongside organisations such as Share the Dignity (Australia), Bloody Good Period (UK), The Pink Protest: #FreePeriods Campaign (UK), Period: The Menstrual Movement (United States), The Pad Project (International), Project Period, and the Glossary for the Global Menstrual Movement.
For the latest detailed status and impact of Pink Box in Poland as of August 2025, it's recommended to check Pink Box’s official social media channels, recent news articles from Polish media, or reports from NGOs working on menstrual equity in Poland. A 2020 study by the Polish Kulczyk Foundation found that 21% of Polish students miss classes due to a lack of menstrual products, and 10% stay home entirely during their periods. The ongoing work of Pink Box and similar organizations is crucial in addressing these statistics and ensuring every person who menstruates has access to the necessary resources.
- Pink Box, inspired by the 2021 Period Products Act in Scotland, is utilizing digital fundraising and digital tools to expand their mission and ensure universal access to free menstrual products.
- The organization has launched an online 'Menstrual Academy' as a free resource, aiming to educate individuals about menstrual health and further empower them towards women's health.
- To complement the pilot program in schools, Pink Box has also been leveraging digital campaigning to gather thousands of signatures through online petitions, advocating for menstrual products as a basic right.
- In support of personal growth, education, and self-development, Pink Box continues to collaborate with global organizations, harnessing digital tools to disseminate information about menstrual health and Cyberstalking awareness.
