ABOUT US
Bleed the North (formerly PERIOD Ontario) was founded by Isabela Rittinger in March 2020, at the start of the COVID-19 lockdown. Due to the stockpiling of period products in grocery stores during that time, the widespread effects of period poverty for individuals across Ontario was exacerbated by pandemic induced panic-buying, which further motivated Isabela to push for better access to period products.
​
With newfound spare time but longtime passion for menstrual equity, Isabela got to work in connecting with other like-minded individuals to work on this project. They quickly sensed interest and motivation from the community to help end period poverty and period stigma, leading the organization to expand from Durham Region to Ontario in May.
Since then, the Bleed the North team has been working tirelessly to provide period products to shelters across the province, advocating for menstrual legislation in Ontario parliament and developing virtual educational campaigns.
-
Is this a non-profit organization?Yes, Bleed the North is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving our community, tackling period stigma, and advocating for menstrual justice.
-
Who is allowed to request period packs?Anyone who needs them! If you are in need of a period pack (consisting of 7 tampons and 11 pads, which should last you a month), you can fill out our form. We don't need to know anything about your situation- all we ask is you only request one if you need it.
-
Who donates the products?Our sponsors, team, and various fundraisers help us create period packs.
-
Does it cost money to request a period pack?Absolutely not. If you need a period pack, you will recieve it for free.
-
How far can we distribute period packs?As of now, we mainly operate in and around Southern Ontario, but we are working hard to ensure we can provide products to Northern communities. Stay tuned!
-
Are products always available?We always try to keep a couple packs so that if there's someone in need, we have some available. The shelters get bigger donations of packs, so they let us know in advance when they need more so we can plan accordingly.
-
How quickly can I receive products after requesting?Once they have been requested, we try to get the packs out ASAP. All we have to do is find a driver who can deliver them and it's on the way!
-
How can I get involved?You can visit our 'Get Involved' page to see the different volunteer opportunities we have to offer. You can also send an email to volunteer@bleedthenorth.org, or send us a message on any of our social platforms! Donating products and signing petitions are both extremely helpful ways to get involved as well!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
BTN PRESS
We have been in the news! See where we have been featured below. If you have a press opportunity and are interested in speaking to a team member, please email info@bleedthenorth.org.
