Women United, an affinity group of the United Way of Lewis County, earlier this month announced the delivery of “thousands” of period supplies products to schools across Lewis County, including Boistfort, Centralia, Chehalis, Morton, Mossyrock, Onalaska, White Pass and Winlock.
The “Supplies Period” program, which was piloted in Centralia, aims to “tackle” poverty, the release said. Specifically, it’s an effort to alleviate “period poverty,” or lack of access to menstrual hygiene products.
Period poverty can be a barrier for education, the release said, causing students to stay home from school during menstruation.
“Recognizing this challenge, Women United is taking action to ensure that no student misses valuable classroom time due to a lack of essential supplies,” the news release said.
The program has collected donations from community members, local businesses and organizations, the release said, including pads, tampons and hygiene kits.
“I am so thankful for our community partners like United Way of Lewis County who continue to think of ways to support our students and help remove barriers for them so that they can concentrate on learning,” said Dr. Christine Moloney, Chehalis School District superintendent, in the release.
Research indicates that period poverty often leads to school absences and hinders academic success, the news release said. Women United, which is focused on “pressing social issues” and women empowerment, is committed to breaking down those barriers, its members wrote in the recent announcement.
“We are so thankful for the generosity and support of Women United and the United Way. The supplies eliminate a worry for our students and allow them to attend school and focus on their academics. This small item makes a significant positive difference for our students,” said Lisa Grant, Ed.D., Centralia School District superintendent, in the release.
For more information on Women United and the “Supplies Period” program, please visit lewiscountyuw.com/women-united.
