Eleven Period Promise dispensers have been installed in Medicine Hat Catholic Board of Education junior high and high schools across the city. Free menstruation products are also available in all MHCBE elementary schools. SUBMITTED PHOTO
kking@medicinehatnews.com
United Way of Southeast Alberta and Medicine Hat Catholic Board of Education have partnered to introduce free-of-charge menstrual products in schools across the division – an initiative board chair Kathy Glasgo says creates a sense of safety and security for students, allowing them to focus on education.
Initiated in early spring, the partnership culminated in installation of 11 pad and tampon dispensers to the division’s junior high and high schools, and baskets of menstrual products in elementary schools.
Much of the initial expense was covered by United Way’s partially government-funded Period Promise campaign, including the $400 apiece time-release dispensers and $5,000 in menstrual products. MHCBE will assume financial responsibility for the initiative once product supplies run out, incorporating expenses into its annual budget.
Glasgo, who first proposed the initiative during her 2021 trustee re-election campaign, and has been the primary force behind its implementation, believes the additional expense a worthwhile investment for the board.
“We provide everything else for our students,” Glasgo said Thursday during the initiative’s official launch. “We supply all kinds of supplies for our students. So, why should (menstrual products) not be there?”
Having previously worked as a teacher, Glasgo says she has seen the need for accessible products firsthand, as some students are unable to afford such, while others are simply caught off guard by their period. The result is often student absences and lost learning opportunities.
Regional United Way director Missy Fandrick is in full agreement, and says simply knowing products are available if needed can boost students’ sense of security.
“When you’re younger, you’re not as confident,” said Fandrick. “And you (might) have no idea what’s happening to you. Or you have no way of regulating it. Or you have no idea when it’s coming … So, isn’t it nice to know there’s (menstrual products) in the bathroom?”
MHCBE students confirmed Fandrick and Glasgo’s statements when speaking on the initiative.
“It feels more like you’re more safe in school,” said Grade 9 student Billy Zawadiuk.
“If you didn’t have access to it, you wouldn’t want to come to school because you would be ashamed, embarrassed and you feel almost unsafe in your own skin,” said Taya Kornelson. “And also, I think it’s really inspiring that people are freely talking about (menstruation). It’s not something to be hidden, because it’s a natural thing.”
