New Brunswick is now offering free period products at provincial libraries.
The items will be available in the washrooms of all 63 public libraries, which officials say are “well positioned” to offer the items, as they “serve a diverse population.”
“Recent data suggests that a significant portion of women and gender diverse people in this province are having to choose between paying for period products or food and rent,” said Sherry Wilson, the minister responsible for Women’s Equality, in a news release.
“Barriers to accessing these products can interfere with many aspects of life, so we are incredibly proud of this initiative.”
The province says moving forward, the initiative will be included in the regular operating budget of the New Brunswick Public Library Service.
Kate Palmer, co-founder of the UNB Menstrual Health Society, said the move is a step in the right direction.
“As co-founders of the UNB Menstrual Health Society, Caroline Stephen and I … hope it inspires further advances in menstrual product accessibility in New Brunswick,” said Palmer.