In December 2023, Bliss discovered the nationwide organization I Support the Girls (ISTG), founded by Dana Marlowe, a business owner, mother, and human rights advocate. She began the initiative when she realized that bras and hygiene products are the most requested but least donated items.

“I wanted to make sure no woman would go without menstrual products or a bra at any point of need in her life. Dignity is dignity,” said Marlowe.

I Support The Girls collects and distributes essential items, including bras, underwear, and menstrual hygiene products to help women experiencing homelessness and poverty. While ‘I Support the Girls’ is a national organization, all items donated stay in the region.

“Over 50,000 items have been donated in the past 10 months, and those have gone to over 22 organizations in Warren County,” said Bliss, ‘I Support the Girls’ Northwest PA affiliate director.

Photos courtesy of I Support the Girls of Northwest PA Donations to I Support the Girls get distributed to regional non-profit organizations that help citizens with bras, underwear, hygiene products, period products, and more. Handmade washable/reusable pads/liners donated by Annie Clement are pictured.

Some of the organizations that donations have benefited include Warren/Forest EOC, Young Mothers Study Club, Family Services, Women’s Care Center, and local schools. They also sent products with the two Red Cross relief workers from Warren to be distributed in areas affected by recent hurricanes.

“If your non-profit organization has people they distribute items to – let us know, and we will add you to the list of groups we donate and distribute to,” said Bliss.

The local I Support The Girls affiliate is currently focused on collecting for a request they have received from local schools.

“We’ve had a specific request for travel-sized toiletries and items for care packages for area youth from the schools,” said Bliss.

Travel-sized toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, mouthwash, deodorant, body wash, and Tylenol have been requested. Other care package items being requested are chapstick, pocket-size tissue packs, toothbrushes and covers, and gas cards. Donations of bras, feminine products, and hygiene products can be dropped off at Jefferson Defrees, Senior Helpers of Warren, and the YMCA. I Support the Girls will collect donations at Howard Hanna’s Blood Drive and Trick or Treat event today from 4 to 8 p.m. at 4234 Market Street.

For more information, contact Bliss at jbliss@seniorhelpers.com.