UPDATE: The fight against period poverty intensifies as the annual ‘It’s In the Bag’ appeal kicks off in Griffith and Leeton with urgent calls for community support. This initiative, led by Share the Dignity, aims to fill bags with essential menstrual products, including pads and tampons, to combat the critical issue of period poverty across Australia.
JUST ANNOUNCED: The appeal features prominent pink bins across local stores, encouraging donations to help those struggling to access menstrual products. Despite some progress, including the installation of a ‘Pink Box’ at the Griffith Community Centre, substantial challenges remain. According to the latest data from Share the Dignity’s 2024 Bloody Big Survey, a staggering 74% of respondents from rural areas reported difficulties accessing period products, compared to 63% in urban locations.
This urgent issue is exacerbated by the fact that 60% of respondents indicated they had missed school due to menstrual issues, with 43% reporting absences from work as well. Furthermore, 70.2% of university students in New South Wales faced challenges purchasing necessary products, often resorting to makeshift solutions like toilet paper or using products longer than recommended.
While every state and territory in Australia has committed to providing free sanitary products in high schools by 2024, advocacy groups are now pushing for similar provisions in primary schools, where some young girls may begin menstruating as early as eight years old.
The local PATL is working tirelessly to address these systemic inequalities. The Griffith and Leeton Share the Dignity drive is set to run until November 30, 2024, with donation locations including Bunnings Warehouse Griffith and various pink boxes throughout both towns. Community members are urged to contribute and help ensure that no one has to face period poverty.
With increasing awareness and community involvement, the hope is to significantly reduce barriers to accessing menstrual hygiene products. Keep an eye on developments as the community rallies together to support this critical cause.
For more information on how to donate or get involved, contact the Griffith and Leeton PATL. Every contribution counts in the fight against period poverty.
