In January 2025, Lutheran Church of Reconciliation (LCOR) Congregation Council President, AJ Oberempt, saw a need in the local community. Wilmington, which is home to LCOR, is also home to many food banks, domestic violence shelters, and other programs created to assist people in and around the community.

Oberempt saw a problem in some of these local services—there was a serious lack of feminine hygiene products being donated and distributed, with some places only being able to give as little as two per month.  One day, when she was cleaning her home, she stumbled upon a collection of empty cosmetic bags with no current use. She realized that those bags could be used to hold female hygiene products and distribute them to the local community with dignity and privacy. When she saw those bags, “It was a total God moment!”

The bags gave her inspiration to start the Dignity.Period Project. Oberempt first started with the congregation, asking them to donate pads, tampons, cosmetic bags, or make a monetary donation to buy these supplies. She also went to other local organizations, found connections within supplier chains, and started an online campaign for the Dignity.Period Project. Many people within the congregation stated that Oberempts’ story and mission touched their hearts, and the response from the congregation and community was overwhelming. Through donations and volunteering, this project has already made such a huge impact in this city.

As of April 2025, LCOR has received 10,693 pads, 6,615 tampons, and 979 cosmetic bags to go towards the Dignity.Period Project. And the numbers are still growing! Volunteers have come together to stuff bags to be distributed throughout Wilmington and the surrounding areas.

Dignity.Period can be a mission for your church as well! If you are interested in tips from project organizers, contact Lutheran Church of Reconciliation in Wilmington, NC.

Make a difference in your own community!