Period Equity: Increasing student access to period products suppoorts an inclusive economy
At Femly, we believe in creating a world where access to organic feminine care is a given, not a luxury. Our journey has taken us to many places, but our initiatives in Fulton County, Georgia, and our home base of Baltimore, Maryland, hold a special place in our hearts. Here, we've seen firsthand how providing free organic feminine care products can transform the lives of students, fostering a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.
Baltimore: The Birthplace of a Movement
Our story began in Baltimore, a city known for its vibrant communities and resilient spirit. Here, we noticed a glaring issue in schools: the lack of accessible menstrual care products. Many students missed valuable classroom time because they didn't have the resources they needed during their menstrual cycle. This wasn't just a health issue; it was a matter of educational equity.
We decided to take action. Partnering with local schools, we installed our free-vend dispensers stocked with organic pads and tampons in restrooms. The impact was immediate and profound. Attendance rates began to improve, and teachers reported a noticeable change in student engagement and confidence. Girls who once felt embarrassed or anxious during their periods now felt supported and empowered.
Expanding Our Reach to Fulton County, Georgia
Encouraged by our success in Baltimore, we turned our attention to Fulton County, Georgia. Like Baltimore, students here faced similar challenges regarding menstrual health. We knew our model could make a difference, and we were right.
In Fulton County, we worked closely with school administrators to understand the specific needs of their students. We learned that, much like in Baltimore, period poverty was not just a barrier to health but also to education and overall well-being. Our dispensers became more than just amenities; they were symbols of a school's commitment to caring for its students.
The Power of Organic Products
Our choice to provide organic products wasn't accidental. We understand the importance of health-conscious options, especially for young people. Organic pads and tampons are free from chemicals and synthetic materials found in many conventional products, offering a safer, more comfortable experience. This decision reflects our commitment to not only address period poverty but also to promote overall health and wellness.
The Impact on Student Life
The introduction of our dispensers in schools had a ripple effect on student life. Students who once felt hindered by their menstrual cycle now participated more actively in class and extracurricular activities. The availability of these products also sparked conversations among students, fostering a community of support and breaking down stigmas associated with menstruation.
Support Beyond Products
Our involvement with schools goes beyond just providing products. We engage in educational workshops and discussions about menstrual health, empowering students with knowledge and resources. These sessions have opened up dialogues about health and wellness, encouraging students to take charge of their well-being and advocate for their needs.
Feedback from Educators and Students
The feedback from educators and students in both Baltimore and Fulton County has been overwhelmingly positive. Teachers have expressed gratitude, noting that our dispensers have not only reduced absenteeism but also helped in creating a more inclusive school environment. Students have shared stories of how having access to these products has relieved them of stress and anxiety, allowing them to focus on their education.
A Model for Other Communities
The success of our initiatives in Baltimore and Fulton County serves as a model for other communities grappling with similar issues. We've shown that with the right approach and partnerships, it's possible to make a significant impact on students' lives. Our goal is to see our dispensers in schools across the nation, ensuring that no student has to compromise their education due to a lack of access to menstrual care products.
Challenges and Learning Experiences
Our journey hasn't been without challenges. One of the biggest hurdles was overcoming the initial resistance from some school administrators who were hesitant to discuss menstrual health openly. However, through persistent advocacy and demonstrating the tangible benefits of our program, we've been able to turn skepticism into support.
We've also learned the importance of adapting our approach to fit the unique needs of each community. What works in one school may not work in another, and being flexible and responsive to feedback has been key to our success.
Looking to the Future
As we look to the future, we're excited about the potential to expand our impact even further. We're exploring new technologies and innovations to make our dispensers even more accessible and user-friendly. We're also looking at ways to incorporate environmental sustainability into every aspect of our operations, from product design to packaging.
A Call to Action
We believe that access to menstrual care is a right, not a privilege. We invite other schools, organizations, and communities to join us in this movement. Together, we can create a future where every student has the resources they need to succeed, regardless of their menstrual health needs.
Our work in Baltimore and Fulton County is just the beginning. We're committed to continuing our efforts to provide organic feminine care products to students across the country. By doing so, we're not just addressing period poverty; we're fostering a culture of inclusivity, support, and empowerment that will resonate for generations to come. Join us in making this vision a reality.
At Femly, we're more than just a company; we're a community of advocates, educators, and innovators dedicated to making a difference.
