United Way Northumberland is expanding its Period Promise program thanks to a $20,000 grant from the Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health, announced last Wednesday in recognition of Menstrual Hygiene Day.
The funding will support the distribution of free menstrual products to women and youth across Northumberland County who are living in poverty. The Period Promise initiative is part of United Way’s commitment to reducing barriers tied to health, dignity, and financial hardship.
“Access to menstrual care is a matter of dignity, health, and equity,” said United Way Northumberland Executive Director Alicia Vandine. “Poverty may not care what time of the month it is, but we do.”
With the new funding, the program now offers several options – including one-month kits, six-month supplies, dignity bags, and the org box, a year-long supply that individuals or businesses can sponsor on behalf of a local non-profit.
The announcement also marks an expansion in community support opportunities, as local residents and businesses are invited to get involved in advancing menstrual equity through sponsorship and donations.
Cobourg Shoppers Drug Mart has partnered with United Way to support the program locally, helping ensure that no one in the community has to choose between food and menstrual care.
Menstrual Hygiene Day, observed globally on May 28, raises awareness of the barriers many face in managing their periods with dignity.
For more information or to get involved, visit www.mynuw.org/periodpromise.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
