For many, talking about menstruation can be uncomfortable.
However, Women United and the Chatham-Kent Labour Council are not afraid to start the discussion.
This is because they know that periods are a fact of life, but for many women they struggle to afford the feminine hygiene products necessary.
It costs a woman approximately $235 per year to purchases necessary supplies, this may not sound like much for the average Canadian woman, but for homeless women, women on disability or financial assistance, and low income groups this cost adds up to a serious problem.
If a household includes multiple ladies this budget is multiplied, United Way officials say.
To ensure that every women has access to the supplies they need, Women United and the Chatham-Kent Labour Council are hosting their annual Tampon Tuesday event.
“Feminine hygiene products are often one of the most requested item but are rarely donated,” stated Marge Muharrem, of Women United, in a media release.
“In CK, there are many are people with jobs but after life expenses such as rent, and food there is little left over to cover expenses such as feminine hygiene products.””
Since 2016, Tampon Tuesday has steadily increased in popularity thanks to the support of workplaces, and concerned individuals, in Chatham-Kent, Unitdd Way officials say.
In 2019, Tampon Tuesday collected over 1,500 boxes of product (sanitary napkins, tampons, panty liners and menstrual cups) which was dispersed to 11 local organizations that included food banks, shelters, church groups and outreach programs across Chatham-Kent.
As COVID changed how people are able to gather and support fundraisers – Tampon Tuesday has also changed how they will operate for 2020.
On Tuesday, October 20, 2020, Tampon Tuesday will transform the parking lot at 425 McNaughton Ave West, Chatham into a drive thru donation station.
From 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. volunteers will be on hand for supporters to drive by and donate without having to leave their car.
Photos of the event’s progress will be shared on Women United’s Facebook page the day of.
An addition to Tampon Tuesday’s recipients, Women United and the Chatham-Kent Labour Council are in discussion to include local schools.
It was recently brought to their attention that there was an increase of requests from households requiring support for food and school supplies for their puberty aged children, United Way officials say.
By providing product directly to the schools, young ladies can access free (and discreet) help when they need it.
For those wishing to support Tampon Tuesday but not able to attend donation day or workplaces looking to get involved are asked to contact Marge Muharrem of Women United marge@uwock.ca 519-354-0430 ext. 274.
United Way of Chatham-Kent, will also be accepting advanced donations and deliveries during office hours at 425 McNaughton Ave West, Chatham.
