Woodlands Teens Lead Life-Changing Pickleball Fundraiser to Donate Period Products to Shelters

THE WOODALNDS, TX --In a spirited effort to tackle menstrual equity in the Greater Houston community, local high school students took to the courts on Thursday, Oct. 8, hosting a charity pickleball tournament for community creation and local advocay. Organized by students from College Park High School on behalf of their non-profit organization, The Dot Project, the event brought together players, supporters, and volunteers for a day of competitive fun, all centered around a critical cause. By the end of the tournament, the team had successfully raised over $1,000 in funds.Every dollar raised during the tournament will go directly toward purchasing essential period products. The Dot Project plans to distribute these items to shelters and community centers across the Houston area, where access to basic hygiene supplies remains an urgent, often overlooked need. Period poverty affects so many individuals right here in our own community,' said one of the student organizers. 'We wanted to create an event that was fun and brought the community together while making a direct, meaningful impact for people who need these basic supplies every single month.' Period poverty is the systemic lack of access to menstrual hygiene products, education, and sanitation facilities. Today it remains a widespread issue affecting low-income families and unhoused individuals. By stepping up to address this challenge head-on, these Woodlands teens demonstrate how youth-led initiatives can drive real social change. With the success of their inaugural tournament, members of The Dot Project hope to turn the pickleball fundraiser into an annual tradition, expanding their reach and continuing to fight period poverty one drive, serve, and donation at a time.