05 May Free. Period.
Tackling Period Equity in Calgary
The Need
Not having access to period products can affect the participation, concentration, confidence, and performance of menstruating Calgarians in the classroom, in the workplace, and in everyday life.
Step 1: Improving Access to Period Products
Youth Central’s Mayor’s Youth Council in partnership with the City of Calgary, and the Calgary Public Library launched the Free. Period. initiative in 2022. Through the pilot project, free pads and tampons were made available in select City and Library facilities.
The need was real, and the feedback was positive.
If you or someone you know needs access to period products, you can find a full list of participating locations on the City of Calgary website.
Step 2: Inviting Youth to Increase Awareness
As we continued to collaborate to address period equity, the Mayor’s Youth Council promoted an art contest for youth to submit their designs to wrap the product dispensers. This was a great way to to involve youth, while increasing awareness and approachability.
Click here to see the winning pieces unveiled.
Step 3: Expanding & Sustaining
Thanks to support from the Shoppers Women’s Health Foundation, in 2023 Free. Period. expanded to all 21 library locations in Calgary.
For more information or to support this essential program visit the Calgary Public Library.