Toronto 
Ontario today announced a partnership with Shoppers Drug Mart to launch menstrual products in schools beginning this year.
As per the news release, Shoppers Drug Mart will provide six million free menstrual products to the province per year, over the next three years. Free menstrual hygiene products will be provided to all school boards, which will make decisions about the distribution of products based on local needs.
A survey conducted by Plan International Canada showed that 34 per cent of women and girls have had to regularly or occasionally sacrifice something else within their budget to afford menstrual products and 63 per cent have regularly or occasionally missed an activity because of their period.
“Through the strong advocacy of young leaders in our schools, it has become extremely clear that menstrual products are a necessity, not a luxury,” said Minister of Education, Stephen Lecce. “This agreement will help remove barriers for women and girls by allowing them to access products at school, free of charge. It is another important way that we are helping to build more inclusive schools that empower all girls to have the confidence to succeed.”
