At Notre Dame High School in downtown San Jose the topic of period products might not be a big deal and the concept of having to do without these basic necessities is unthinkable.  But for many people throughout the San Jose community, this is the harsh reality.  According to Sacred Heart Community Center (SHCS), who serves thousands of people each month, some are often forced to stay at home rather than attend school or work due to a lack of adequate supplies.  Notre Dame shares a special bond with Sacred Heart Community Center, one of its downtown partners, with students often volunteering in various capacities.  SHCS offers a comprehensive array of resources and services as it brings together the community to address poverty in Silicon Valley and although they receive donations regularly, period products are rarely included.

After hearing about the challenges facing their neighbors in the community, the Notre Dame students took action, launching The Sister Project over ten years ago. Held each year during Notre Dame’s annual Spirit Week, The Sister Project collects women’s underwear and period products for donation to Sacred Heart. 

This year's Sister Project brought in more than $7,200 through an online campaign. The funds were used to purchase:

• 10,600 pads
• 11,520 tampons
• 10,080 liners
• 480 pairs of undergarments (various sizes)

On hundred and seventy students in Notre Dame's Class of 2025 held a packing party where they put together 1,287 hygiene kits for delivery to Sacred Heart Community Service.