Saskatchewan gov’t, Shoppers Drug Mart to provide period products

A new deal has been struck to help Saskatchewan women who struggle to afford menstrual products.

Free period products will be made available in Saskatchewan thanks to an agreement between the province and Shopper’s Drug Mart.

The commitment is to provide 12 million period products over the next three years, starting this fall.

Shoppers will donate the products and the province will distribute them to locations where they’re most needed.

“On behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan, we thank Shoppers Drug Mart for their generosity,” Laura Ross, the province’s minister responsible for the status of women, said in a media release.

“This partnership will help us provide free menstrual products to those who need them in a sensitive and dignified way and that will make a big difference in the lives of women and girls in Saskatchewan.”

According to a survey by Plan International Canada, one in five Canadians who menstruate struggle to afford menstrual products for themselves or a dependent.

“Menstrual products aren’t a luxury item, and no one should be disadvantaged in any way because they get their period,” Shoppers Drug Mart president Jeff Leger said in the release.  “Our hope is that this donation will help unlock the potential of so many women and girls in Saskatchewan, by removing a significant barrier preventing them from pursuing their goals.

“On behalf of the Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health, I’d like to thank Procter & Gamble, makers of Always, for their ongoing support and shared commitment to menstrual equity.”