Every day, small acts of kindness remind us how community care can grow into something larger. Recently, eight students from Coppell High School showed what that can look like in practice. Through their nonprofit, Beyond the Cycle, they partnered with Metrocrest Services to help ensure that women in the community have steady access to essential menstrual products.

Beyond the Cycle is a student-led organization whose recent fundraising efforts supported the purchase of feminine hygiene products for the Food Pantry. Their commitment reflects a rising awareness among young people of menstrual equity and the importance of ensuring everyone has access to basic necessities.

Beyond the Cycle was founded on June 1, 2025, in response to increasing menstrual product costs and the financial strain many women face. “We want menstrual products to be treated as necessities, not privileges,” shared Founder and President Shikha Ramkishen. “Access shouldn’t depend on someone’s financial situation.”

The students realized their impact would be greater if they raised funds for Metrocrest Services to purchase products in bulk, so they mapped out a plan to stock the pantry for months. They hosted bake sales, organized a debate tournament, and partnered with a local coffee shop for a profit‑sharing day. Through these efforts, they raised $2,700, which allowed the purchase of more than 15,000 menstrual pads for women in need.

Their involvement did not end with fundraising. When the products were delivered to the Food Pantry, the teens volunteered to stock the shelves themselves. During their shift, several neighbors shared how difficult it can be to afford menstrual products while managing a tight budget. The students saw firsthand how meaningful their contribution was to the women who depend on the pantry.

They also emphasized that limited access to menstrual products remains a significant public health concern. “Women shouldn’t have to choose between food, bills, and period products,” noted Ramkishen. She added that this donation marks the beginning of an ongoing partnership with Metrocrest Services and that their goal is to help keep the pantry stocked year‑round.

“Metrocrest Services relies on the community to help keep our shelves filled with hygiene items,” said Casen McMahan, Director of Nutrition Services. “Their work shows how meaningful change often begins when young people notice a need and choose to respond.”

If you’re interested in joining Beyond the Cycle to help build a thriving community for ALL, click here to learn how you can get involved.