One-year pilot project designed to provide free access to menstrual products launched to reduce stigma and barriers
Winnipeg, MB – The City of Winnipeg is now offering free menstrual products for the public at eight City facilities. These complimentary menstrual products are being provided as part of a one-year pilot project launched to reduce stigma and barriers around menstruation and to make a much-needed basic necessity more easily available to Winnipeg residents.
Free menstrual products are now accessible in 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.
“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.”
“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.”
Council has approved $58,500 to support the one-year pilot project, which will operate through September 2023. During the pilot, the City will track data, uptake, and assess delivery to determine if the program can be extended or expanded in the future.
Information on the free menstrual product pilot project is available at winnipeg.ca/menstrualproducts.