The Ford government has inked a deal with Shoppers Drug Mart to provide free menstrual products to school boards across Ontario.
Six million products per year will be sent to boards for the next three years to help address what’s known as period poverty.
“Through the strong advocacy of young leaders in our schools, it has become extremely clear that menstrual products are a necessity, not a luxury,” says Education Minister Stephen Lecce. “This agreement will help remove barriers for women and girls by allowing them to access products at school, free of charge. It is another important way that we are helping to build more inclusive schools that empower all girls to have the confidence to succeed.”
A recent survey showed 63% of women and girls have regularly or occasionally missed an activity because of their period and the ability to access menstrual hygiene products or proper facilities. 34% of women and girls also said they have sacrificed something else within their budget to be able to buy tampons or pads.
“Inequitable access to period products, particularly for students, can lead to missed opportunities — school, work, and other activities — and creates barriers to success,” Jeff Leger, President of Shoppers Drug Mart says. “This donation will provide thousands of students in Ontario with free access to period products, thousands who won’t have to make that difficult choice. We are proud to be a part of this initiative, and grateful to our stores, our partners, and our customers for their support.”
School boards will be responsible for distributing the products to schools, which should happen by late fall.
