Friday, May 28 is World Menstrual Hygiene Day!
Periods are a fact of life. That’s why HSA, in partnership with the United Way, has long advocated for free access to necessary menstrual products.
We know that for those living in poverty – or vulnerable in other ways – access to menstrual products can be challenging. And COVID has made it even more difficult.
Our union has been participating in the #PeriodPromise campaign, and our own Stomp Out Period Poverty campaign, for a number of years. Each year our collective contribution grows larger thanks to the amazing enthusiasm and activism of our members. Because of this work, we are helping to shift public opinion and motivating government action on this important issue.
This year has been different. With COVID still moving through our communities, and a deeply challenging third wave that hit our health and community service sectors hard, we decided to make a significant donation to the campaign in lieu of running local campaigns.
Today we are announcing that HSA has donated $10,000 to the Period Promise campaign, as we continue to do our part to advance this critical campaign.
I know there are still events happening and collection drives taking place around the province. I would encourage anyone who is interested to get involved in those campaigns. And if running a campaign at your local chapter is something you want to take on, please reach out to Jaime Matten for assistance from your union.
You can also add to HSA's donation with a personal donation, if you are comfortable doing so. This link will ensure your donation builds on the union’s commitment to ending period poverty: http://bit.ly/pphealthsa
I want to acknowledge the long-standing commitment of our members to this campaign. Access to menstrual products is not just an equity issue; it’s also a public health issue. No one knows this better than the professionals who keep British Columbians safe and healthy every day.
I thank you, and the United Way thanks you, for your ongoing commitment to ending period poverty!
Sincerely,
Val Avery
President
HEALTH SCIENCES ASSOCIATION OF BC