Menstrual May

Period poverty is something many people never have to think about. But for some, it’s a monthly struggle.

Hundreds of women, girls, and non-binary and transgender individuals in our community experience period poverty, meaning they don’t have access to the menstrual products they need. As a result, people might miss school, work, or social activities. They might be forced to use toilet paper instead of pads or tampons. Period poverty can take a toll on a person over time, and lead to embarrassment. 

Menstrual May is your opportunity to help remove this barrier.

Many United Ways across Canada – Halifax included – collect menstrual products during the month of May and disperse the donated products to local, community organizations who need them. But you can organize a menstrual product drive any time of the year. It’s the number one requested toiletry item at many of our funded community hubs, which makes for a great employee engagement activity that truly makes a difference.

Advocating for access

Since starting our period poverty work locally, our advocacy efforts have inspired others to take action:

• Several independently-owned pharmacies made menstrual products free to anyone who expressed a need.
• Halifax Public Libraries began providing free menstrual products in all library washrooms (both gender-specific and gender-neutral).
• In February 2020, HRM Council voted to provide free menstrual products in all municipal facilities, such as community centres and arenas.

If you are a business owner, please consider providing free menstrual products in your washrooms.