Today we’d like to introduce you to Alyx Carrasquel
Hi Alyx, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have always been very passionate about reproductive health. I have been working in abortion for several years now, and it’s made me realize the lack of access to so many other things (like period products)
When I was little, my mom always made sure I had the items I needed for my period, and periods were definitely a pretty normal thing at home – and it wasn’t until I became an adult that I learned that’s not the case for a lot of people.
Ever since I learned about other people placing period pantries in their hometowns, I thought it was such an incredible idea (as much as I hate that something like that is even necessary – PERIOD POVERTY IS REAL!!)
On May of 2023 I was reading a book about periods and how many things impact and cause period poverty and I think that was the last push I needed to create what is now Jax Period Pantry.
I started this project on June of 2023. I decided I would create an instagram account, make a post about my idea, and hope for the best.
The second I posted it, friends, and even strangers on the internet began reaching out and interacting. The amount of support I received immediately was beautiful and heartwarming.
From that moment I knew I was committed to make this a reality so I got to work. I started communicating with different businesses around town that I know hold similar values to mine and that would be a safe space to house the pantries.
The first home was given by The Walrus in Murray Hill – they’re an incredible queer bar/restaurant that I consider a second home.
After that, the support just kept coming and more local businesses began reaching out, and that’s how it all came to fruition. I can’t do all of this without the support of this community. JPP heavily relies on donations, and they all come from people in the community (and even some folks from out of town and state!!!!)
I’m so grateful to be able to be a part of this beautiful Jax community that never ceases to give <3
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s been a beautiful ride, but definitely some road blocks. I experienced the very first one right away. When we figured out the right place for the pantry at The Walrus, we realized the space was a bit tricky to fit most cabinets that could be bought online, but I was so determined, I decided to build one myself and that’s how the first pantry came to be.
After that, it’s been smoother – I started getting so many donations that I had to start renting a big storage unit to fit them all. And honestly, I have never been so excited to have to rent something.
One time I ran into an article that was bashing JPP (and me as an individual) which was quite shocking to see, but nothing I wasn’t familiar with. I just couldn’t believe someone had something bad to say about making period products more accessible…
Outside of that, the amount of support JPP has received has been incredible.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I work full time at a practical support abortion fund, where we help folks seeking abortion care travel out of state to their appointments.
I have a big passion for reproductive justice, rights, and healthcare.
My dream is to live in a world where everyone has full bodily autonomy and access to the tools and care they need.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
The truth is, I hate that period pantries are even necessary. Period products should be free and easily accessible to anyone who menstruates. I started JPP out of love – and necessity. But ideally, I would love to see lawmakers implement policies to make these ESSENTIAL items (that are in no way a luxury) more accessible to people in the near future. Legislative session will be here before we know it and I am highly encouraging our representatives and our community to advocate for free periods products for all menstruating Floridians!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/jaxperiodpantry
