United Way Central Alberta is calling on Albertans to help break the cycle of period poverty.
The group launched the return of its Period Promise campaign on Friday. With the goal of collecting over 85,000 menstrual products throughout the month of May, the organization continues its commitment to supporting those in need within the community.
“Period Promise underscores our commitment to fight period poverty in Central Alberta,” said Chelsea O’Donoghue, CEO of United Way Central Alberta.
“Together, we can destigmatize menstruation and ensure that everyone has access to these essential products with the dignity they deserve.”
In a release, the organization encouraged communities, workplaces, and individuals to participate in the United Way-led initiative by running their own Period Promise collection campaigns, gathering tampons, pads, and other menstrual products to help get products to people who need them.
Workplaces are also encouraged to sign United Way’s Period Promise policy, pledging to provide free menstrual products to anyone accessing their facilities.
According to the release, United Way Central Alberta indicated that the Period Promise campaign has seen a steady increase in its impact through the years, shedding light on the alarming statistic that nearly 1-in-4 Canadians who menstruate struggle to afford menstrual products for themselves or their children.
“We recognize the significant impact of period poverty has in different areas of life, including heightened risks to physical health and mental well-being,” said O’Donoghue.
“As the cost of living rises, this reality becomes increasingly prevalent for more Central Albertans.”
The organization also said that last year alone, they distributed over 71,600 menstrual products to agencies and schools across Central Alberta. Building on this success, UWCA aims to expand its reach and impact even further in 2024.
To facilitate donations, United Way Central Alberta encourages the public to bring their contributions to their office. The organization will also engage community members and collect donations at Bower Place Shopping Center on Saturday, May 4th, 2024, and additional community pop-up events throughout May.
For more information about United Way Central Alberta’s Period Promise Campaign and how to get involved, visit www.caunitedway.ca/period-promise/.
The Period Promise campaign, originating from the United Way of Lower Mainland in British Columbia, has gained nationwide momentum.
According to the release, the initiative catalyzes transformative action, emphasizing the necessity of ensuring barrier-free access to menstrual products for all. Spanning the entire month of May, the United Way Central Alberta Period Promise Campaign aligns with the annual observance of World Menstrual Health Day on May 28th.