Summer is over & kids are back to school. While a traditional school supplies list might include pencils, backpacks, and notebooks, this year, Free Flow wants you to consider adding a couple more items to your school supply list: Menstrual Products. Just as pencils, backpacks and notebooks are crucial for academic success, period supplies are vital for the well-being and confidence of young girls during their menstrual cycles.
Menstruation is a natural biological process that affects a significant portion of the student population. Unfortunately, many girls face challenges when it comes to managing their periods at school due to lack of access to necessary supplies. 51% of students have worn period products for longer than recommended. This can lead to missed classes, decreased participation in school activities, and, ultimately, a negative impact on their education.
In 2020 the state of Virginia passed an unfunded mandate requiring all public schools to provide sanitary products to those in need, without cost. To fulfill this mandate, schools in Virginia and other states who have unfunded mandates, are often relying on the local government and community to come up with the resources to fund this policy. Free Flow wants to help with be part of the solution.
What are we going to do about it?
Creating a supportive environment where girls can thrive academically includes addressing their health and hygiene needs. Our Period Supplies Are School Supplies Campaign encourages the donation of period products to make sure that they are accessible to those who need them most.
Free Flow is also excited to be hosting our 3rd annual Period Supplies Are School Supplies event with Old Dominion University. In collaboration with the Women and Gender Equity Center (WGEC), Free Flow will host a month-long Period Equity Donation Drive leading up to our Period Packing Party!!
Our goal this year is to provide over 1000 period products to the greater Old Dominion University Community, but in order to reach this goal, we will need your help!
We will be accepting donations via our ODU Amazon Wish List. To learn about this amazing partnership, click here.
Addressing the issue of period supplies as part of school supplies is about ensuring equality in education. Every student deserves the opportunity to attend school without the stress and embarrassment of not having access to the products they need. By prioritizing these basic hygienic products, we can help create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students, paving the way for a brighter future.
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