City council voted to go ahead with a pilot project that will see free menstrual products in city facilities.
This means these products will be accessible in libraries and recreational centers, totaling 17 locations in Thunder Bay.
The project was originally proposed by Northwood Ward Councilor Shelby Ch’ng in 2019.
“It evolved out of a real need for people who menstruate to have sanitary products when they need them, just as much as we need toilet paper in city washrooms, and soap, and water, this issue has been around since women started menstruating.” said Ch’ng, explaining the importance of the project.
Much of the conversation was based around the cost associated with the pilot project.
Westford Ward Councilor Kristen Oliver touched upon this.
“There are municipalities that do this with success. Oddly I think it’s interesting that the key component of the conversation we’re having tonight is based around the cost, and what it’s going to cost the city to deliver this program. I think it’s important to recognize that those utilizing these products are also challenged with the cost on a monthly basis on how they’re going to care for themselves during their periods.”
London attempted an identical project, reporting great success finding themselves under-budget upon completion of the trial period.
The pilot project will kick off when Thunder Bay returns to the orange level restriction zone or better, as the facilities that would house the menstrual products would be inaccessible otherwise.
