REGINA — A partnership between the Government of Saskatchewan and Shoppers Drug Mart is expanding a program that distributes free menstrual products in the province.
"This fall, in addition to 670 elementary and high schools, nine post-secondary institutions and six private vocational schools will receive product so students in need have access to free period products,” Minister Responsible for the Status of Women Office Laura Ross said.
“All partners are committed to increasing safety and affordability in our communities."
Since the initiative was launched in October 2023, more than five million period products have been delivered to 670 schools and 23 shelters across the province. Two million more products are scheduled for distribution starting in October.
The announcement was made at the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technology in Regina, one of the many schools that will benefit from the program. Shipments of 435,000 products to the post-secondary institutions will start in October.
"At Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies, walking alongside our learners and supporting them throughout their educational journey is central to our student support model,” Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT) Operations and Advancement Vice-President Dr. Vickie Drover said.
“With over 2,500 students, and 55 per cent identifying as female, ensuring access to essential items is crucial to reducing barriers and fostering a safe, supportive environment. Partnerships like this one are invaluable in our efforts to empower Indigenous learners, enabling them to focus on their education and personal growth."
Through the partnership with the Shoppers Foundation for Women's Health, the province will receive 12 million free products over three years. Shoppers donates the products, and Saskatchewan's Status of Women Office manages the distribution.
Shoppers Drug Mart has a long history of supporting women's health charities across Canada. With a commitment to regular giving through the charitable arm of the company, Shoppers Foundation for Women's Health, Shoppers Drug Mart is building on this legacy by focusing on reducing health inequities, particularly through initiatives that promote menstrual equity.
To learn more about the Foundation's initiatives, visit: shoppersfoundation.ca.
