about Us- BRAWS

BRAWS mission is to bring dignity and empowerment to women and girls living in shelters by providing new, personally fitted undergarments and menstrual supplies. In 2018, we were able to serve over 80 shelters and schools, help 6,000 women and girls, reach: 21 counties, 10 school districts, 6 states, and distribute over two million new and unopened pads, tampons, underwear and bras. Learn more HERE or scroll down to see our latest happenings!

our story

Seven years ago, our founder Holly Seibold wanted to help women in local homeless shelters. She held a small collection drive at her house, inviting friends and neighbors and collected over 300 new bras, underwear, pads, and tampons. Holly brought the items to 3 shelters in the area and soon other shelters were calling her. She quickly discovered that these items are: rarely donated, expensive for shelters to replenish, and are not covered by food stamps.

Since then, BRAWS has expanded our services- to include monthly deliveries of menstrual products to area shelters and school pantries. In 2018, we were able to serve over 80 shelters and schools, help 6,000 women and girls, reach: 21 counties, 10 school districts, 6 states, and distribute over two million new and unopened pads, tampons, underwear and bras.

The majority of individuals in homeless shelters are women and their children. They are typically victims of domestic violence fleeing from abusive homes or are single mothers who have lost their jobs due to unforeseen circumstances and need help getting back on their feet. They need physical and mental support to transition to better lives for themselves and their children. Our mission is to provide them not only with tangible items they need, but to empower them to gain independence and stability.

We have also found that many girls miss school due to lack of menstrual products and are working to meet that need by providing these products to area schools and school pantries. With the help of area businesses and organizations we have installed free dispensers in over 15 schools and community locations. BRAWS also engages in advocacy and education on menstrual equity, stigma and improving accessibility of menstrual products and undergarments for women and girls.

oh what a night!

Thanks to YOU-
Thousands of women in shelters will not have to go without a bra, underwear or essential menstrual supplies.
Thousands of girls won't have to miss school because their family could not afford menstrual supplies.

Huge thanks to our amazing Sponsors- their support is crucial to our mission. Check out our Sponsor list- these are area businesses who care about the women and girls in our community!