University Library offers free period products to those in need
The University Library is supporting students struggling with the rising cost of living and those experiencing period poverty by installing a new Dignity Vending Machine. The machine, installed and funded by the charity Share the Dignity, dispenses PinkBox Period Packs, which contain six tampons and two pads, for women, girls, and those who menstruate.
The Dignity Vending Machine is located in the gender-neutral, accessible toilet in the Learning Lounge at Auchmuty Library. This means students have 24-hour access to free period products at the push of a button!
The University Library is committed to breaking down the barriers and stigma associated with menstruation and ensuring that students can safely and privately access period products when needed.
Share the Dignity Founder and Managing Director, Rochelle Courtenay, dreamed of finding a way for women, girls and those who menstruate who are doing it tough to access free period products without the anxiety and shame that many feel when having to ask someone else for help.
“I was shocked to discover that people were using rolled-up toilet paper and hand towels to manage their periods,” she said. We could not believe that people had to choose between feeding their families or buying period products.”
Share the Dignity purchase and supply the specially made period packs in the Dignity Vending Machines, sponsored by businesses and through grants and donations. Library staff look after the maintenance and stocking of the machine, ensuring that products are readily available.
You can support Share the Dignity in several ways to provide these Dignity Vending Machines across the community. Organisations can Sponsor a Dignity Vending Machine, or people can hold a Birthday Fundraiser, swapping gifts for donations to fund the Period Packs. For more information, visit www.sharethedignity.org.au.
The Library’s Staff Engagement Group also runs Share the Dignity drives annually to collect and donate period products for people experiencing period poverty in the community. You can donate at the next drive in August.
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