United Way puts spotlight on tampons, pads for women and girls who struggle to afford it

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – When it comes to helping people in poverty, you often hear about the need for food and shelter.

But a new campaign is trying to highlight another basic necessity for some: menstruation products.

The Period Promise,” is a new campaign by United Way trying to end “period poverty” by collecting money, pads and tampons to give to people who need it.

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You’re urged to donate a box to help someone in need.

Last week, the New Westminster School Board decided to offer free tampons and pads in the city’s public school bathrooms.

The idea came from Douglas College professor Selina Tribe, who estimates the move to offer free feminine hygiene products costs schools less than $1 per student after the second year of installing the machines.

RELATED: Tampons and pads will soon be free in New West public schools

The tampons will be available in elementary, middle and high schools in New Westminster, starting the next school year.

 – With files from Jonathan Szekeres