Winnipeg makes menstrual products more accessible in year-long project

Free menstrual products are now available at select City of Winnipeg facilities, thanks to a new year-long pilot project.

The project is aiming to “reduce stigma and barriers around menstruation” and make the products more accessible for all Winnipeggers.

“We are proud to approve this important initiative and make it possible for those in need of menstrual products to have free access to them at numerous locations across the city,” said Councillor Cindy Gilroy, chairperson of the Standing Policy Committee on Property and Development, Heritage, and Downtown Development.

“The free menstrual product pilot program will be assessed throughout this initial year in hopes of continuing the program in the future and potentially expanding it to further ease access for all people in Winnipeg.”

Winnipeg City Council has committed nearly $60,000 to the project, which will last until the end of September 2023.

Over the course of the year, the city will monitor the project closely to see if it can be extended.

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“Access to menstrual hygiene products and information about menstruation is a basic human right, period,” said Councillor Vivian Santos, Point Douglas. “Not really any different than toilet paper, the City of Winnipeg can provide access to basic hygiene necessities to people who menstruate by offering them in libraries, community clubs and civic buildings.

“Period poverty, or the inability to afford menstrual products, is a big concern in Canada. This program would at least start removing one of the many barriers that women and girls face today. These products must not only be free of charge, but also be provided in ways that protect privacy, are easily accessible, and are consistent in delivery and availability,” Added Santos.

The free menstrual products will be available at the following city facilities:

• Millennium Library – 251 Donald St.;
• Fort Rouge Leisure Centre – 625 Osborne St.;
• Seven Oaks Pool – 444 Adsum Dr.;
• Freight House Recreation Centre/Central Community Centre – 200 Isabel St.;
• Elmwood Kildonan Pool – 909 Concordia Ave.;
• Turtle Island Neighbourhood Centre – 510 King St.;
• Margaret Grant Pool – 685 Dalhousie Dr.;
• Westdale Community Centre – 550 Dale Blvd.

 

More detailed information on the pilot project can be found on the City of Winnipeg’s website.