High school junior Kavya Parikh has set out to combat a widespread problem that few people talk about. With the launch of her nonprofit Tampon Express, Parikh collects feminine hygiene products for any person who can’t afford them. The average person spends $20 per cycle on these products – a cost that is too high for some. The phrase “period poverty” was coined to describe the public health crisis that results in missed days at school and work, health risks and shame. Period products are rarely donated to nonprofits, Parikh says. So her organization collects donated tampons and pads, and holds events to raise money to purchase items for donating. If you would like to help, visit tamponexpress.org.