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Kimberly-Clark Enhances Global Partnerships for Women's Health

In a bold move aimed at improving the lives of millions, Kimberly-Clark Corporation has reinforced its commitment to essential healthcare for women and girls globally. On October 9, 2025, the Dallas-based company announced several strategic partnerships with esteemed organizations such as Baby2Baby, Plan International, Project HOPE, and UNICEF. These alliances are set to expand access to life-changing health care for an estimated 24 million women and young girls across various regions, including Brazil, Peru, China, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the USA.

By committing $28.7 million over the next three years, Kimberly-Clark’s focus is on menstrual health and maternal and child care, which are critical issues facing women worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, a woman or child dies every seven seconds during or shortly after childbirth, and about 500 million women and girls lack access to menstrual hygiene resources. Despite these alarming statistics, experts assert that investments in women's health yield significant returns for society.

Mike Hsu, the CEO of Kimberly-Clark, emphasized the company's vision for a world where women and girls can access the fundamental care necessary for a fulfilled life. "Since creating the category of feminine care products in 1921, our commitment to advancing care for women has only grown stronger. We are committed to accelerating our impact because we understand that 'Better Can't Wait.'"

Key Programs and Focus Areas

The funded programs will primarily support underserved communities, with key initiatives focusing on menstrual hygiene education, addressing stigma for adolescents, expanding access to safe health solutions, and enhancing maternal and neonatal care. Mental health support for mothers will also be prioritized, alongside initiatives to strengthen health systems to improve outcomes for the most vulnerable.

The partnership with Baby2Baby, initiated in 2011, is notable for its efforts to provide essential infant supplies to families in poverty. In 2024, the Huggies® brand increased its involvement by supporting Baby2Baby's initiative aimed at combating rising maternal mortality rates in the U.S. This partnership exemplifies how Kimberly-Clark links the critical need for diapers with neonatal health and maternal mental health.

Norah Weinstein and Kelly Sawyer Patricof, co-CEOs of Baby2Baby, expressed gratitude for Kimberly-Clark's longstanding support and commitment, stating, "With their extraordinary donation and three-year commitment, we are poised to make a more significant impact in fighting maternal mortality."

Since 2020, Kimberly-Clark and Plan International, through the Kotex® brand, have aided around 11 million people by supporting menstrual health for young girls. The enhanced partnership across various countries will foster respectful community and school environments, ensuring girls have access to necessary supplies and education, enabling them to manage their menstrual health with dignity.

Collaborative Efforts Toward Sustainable Change

Kimberly-Clark's partnership with Project HOPE is expanding access to menstrual and maternal health education for women and girls in China and Indonesia. This initiative spotlights the importance of respectful maternal care and mental health support while providing comprehensive education and digital tools throughout the life cycle of women from adolescence through early motherhood.

Dr. Uche Ralph-Opara, health lead at Project HOPE, reinforced the alignment of both organizations in striving for a world where women and girls receive the dignity, care, and opportunities they deserve. "Kimberly-Clark's support has enabled us to enhance access to essential health services for women and girls worldwide."

The ongoing 25-year collaboration with UNICEF aims to improve the health and wellbeing of young girls and women across 26 countries. The new multiregional initiative will focus on menstrual hygiene education and maternal health access in Brazil, India, Indonesia, Peru, and Vietnam.

Impactful Change Through Integrated Partnerships

This new phase of partnerships represents an integrated approach to women's health challenges, recognizing the interconnectedness of menstrual health, maternal wellbeing, and child development. With its products serving these populations, Kimberly-Clark is strategically positioned to create lasting change through these partnerships.

Russ Torres, President and COO of Kimberly-Clark, emphasizes the importance of care in every aspect of the business, stating, "Our core value 'We Care' is fundamental to our mission, and these partnerships will extend that commitment, ensuring women and girls worldwide receive the essential support they deserve."

The Kimberly-Clark Foundation’s dedication to women and girls is part of a broader objective to achieve Better Care for a Better World, contributing directly to the company’s ambition to positively impact one billion lives by 2030. For more information about Kimberly-Clark’s 2030 ambition and the Foundation’s work, visit their sustainability webpage.

Kimberly-Clark is trusted by people in over 175 countries through brands like Huggies, Kleenex, Scott, and Kotex, reinforcing their commitment to sustainable practices that benefit the planet and create strong communities.

For further details about their impactful initiatives, visit Kimberly-Clark's official website.