United Way British Columbia is leading the 2025 Period Promise campaign (May 1–31) to combat period poverty in the province. Sponsored by Blue Cross and CUPE Local 1816, the campaign aims to relieve costs on menstrual products.
According to a 2021 report (Period Promise Final Report), half of everyone who menstruates in B.C has struggled to afford products. Students, workers, newcomers, single parents, Indigenous peoples, and those with disabilities and/or living in rural communities are especially affected by rising costs.
“Period poverty remains a harsh reality for far too many people who menstruate, especially as the cost of living rises.,” says CUPE 1816, President, Beth Miller. “In BC, half of all people who menstruate have struggled to afford products at some point. The United Way BC Period Promise campaign meets a critical need — providing free products to those who need them most and helping frontline organizations across the province.”
“Every donation, no matter the size, makes a real difference by restoring dignity, improving wellbeing, and ensuring no one is held back by something beyond their control,” adds Miller.
In 2024, United Way BC received over 500,000 products and distributed them to over 130 community partners. This year, the campaign aims to collect over 550,000 products for people in need across the province.
To learn more and donate, visit uwbc.ca/periodpromise.
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