Our Mission
Why do we exist?
The 40 Project is committed to ensuring access to essential sanitary products for individuals experiencing period poverty in Plymouth. Through dignity and care, we provide thoughtfully curated monthly hygiene kits to those in vulnerable situations, including those who are sofa surfing, living in hostels, or sleeping and working on the streets. Beyond essential support, we foster empowerment through creativity, community involvement, and advocacy, amplifying the voices of those we serve while working to break the stigma surrounding period poverty.
Meet The Team
Charlie
Founder & Lead Coordinator
I started The 40 Project just before Christmas in 2019. That December, each kit included tampons, sanitary towels, a luxury soap and soap box, and even an after-dinner mint! With small children, I couldn't support services in person, so I found out what women in crisis needed and started making packs. I hope one day we find ourselves redundant, but until then, the 40 Project will continue to fill the gap with care and love.'
Sharon
Team Member, Supplies & Packing
Jen
Team Member, Supplies & Packing
I have volunteered with The 40 Project since 2020, helping pack period kits each month, wrapping gifts of luxury items at Christmas or Valentine's, and sorting donations of sanitary items and other toiletries. I love being involved with a project that helps women in unstable situations feel empowered and in control over their bodies, even if in a small way. I enjoy spending time with the team organising the sanitary items into a useful and usable kit for women experiencing period poverty in Plymouth:
Alannah
Team Member & Kit Distribution
'I have been a volunteer with the 40 project since 2022, delivering the monthly kits. I am proud to be a part of a project that advocates for the essential access to period products for women experiencing homelessness and that focuses on breaking down stigma around period poverty.'
Rachel
Team Member & Kit Distribution
'I have volunteered at The 40 Project since 2022, delivering parcels to hostels and assisting with homeless outreach. I became involved after experiencing period poverty during a time of housing instability, recognising how devastating this is for women month after month. I love meeting the women we provide kits to and the workers supporting homeless services.
The 40 Project is a beautiful initiative, and I am incredibly proud to be a part of it.'
Our Partnerships
As we celebrate our 5th anniversary, we are proud to highlight the incredible partners who have joined us in our mission to support vulnerable women through creativity, resilience, and kindness for 2025.
Plymouth Dance was the first to champion our cause, sparking a ripple effect that led to even more partnerships. Their dedication to amplifying our work will be invaluable. Oxford House Creative Hub is joining us in 2025 by hosting a donation bin, making it even easier for the community to contribute.
We are also thrilled to officially welcome Trevi Women, whose unwavering support for women’s empowerment aligns perfectly with our mission. Together, we are developing the a creative toolkit—a unique written word and movement course that builds on our pilot project, where professional dancers brought women's poetry to life.
Longtime supporter Laura Wall Gallery has been with us from the beginning, donating beautifully illustrated items to bring joy and comfort to women facing hardship. Their ongoing generosity continues to inspire us.
These partnerships represent the heart of The 40 Project—building connections, fostering creativity, and ensuring that every woman has access to support, dignity, and inspiration. We are deeply grateful to each of our partners for believing in our vision and helping us expand our impact.