It’s that time - Period Poverty Time
It’s the time of the month for women around the world and in northeastern Connecticut.
According to the National Diaper Bank Network and the Alliance for Period Supplies, “Period Poverty” refers to the inability to afford and access menstrual products of any kind and other basic hygiene items required to manage a period.
It’s Time To Put an End to Period Poverty! Can you help?
IHSP is holding a period supply and toiletry drive through May 9. Drop-offs may be made at: WINY Radio, the Putnam Public Library, Smoke & Mirrors Beauty Loft and Centreville Bank in Putnam.
In the US, 2 in 5 people with periods struggle to purchase products due to a lack of income. 44 percent of teens surveyed by U by Kotex* reported stress and embarrassment due to a lack of access to these products. One in three low income women report missing work, school or other events due to lack of supplies.
Period Poverty is an issue of public and personal health, dignity and well-being. Many report having to use cloth rags, tissues, toilet paper, paper towels and even children’s diapers. People who struggle with the rising costs of period supplies and personal hygiene products face a higher risk of infection. In many instances going without can also affect one’s mental health.
Everyone has the right to feel comfortable and clean. Individuals require an average of 6 period products per day, and period supplies aren’t covered by safety net programs.
The IHSP-Diaper Bank of NECT is a member of the National Diaper Bank Network. See left for details.
*Source: U by Kotex survey conducted with YouGov
.