Menstrual products are coming to some Pennsylvania schools thanks to Governor Shapiro’s million-dollar program.

Dr. Khalid Mumin Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Education says it’s important to create conditions where students can learn without having barriers to the basic needs that may be acquired.

“First and foremost, the governor and the first lady advocated for this funding because they believe that all Pennsylvanians, especially our kids, deserve real opportunity and freedoms to be able to chart their course for success, “said Dr. Khalid Mumin.

Pennsylvania Department of Health, Dr. Debra Bogen, says this is a win-win across the commonwealth, and she’s glad to see this program move forward.

“There's no bell that goes off that says I'm going to have my period today. So, it's really important that we have the flexibility in schools to respond to the needs of children when they when they need them. So, this is such a smart and easy, important, not easy, but it's an important program, right? We provide all kinds of things for our children to ensure they're ready for their school day. And this is just another important need that is met for children where, you know, you can't always have everything you need, always at your fingertips. And so, this is making sure the schools have those needs met, “said Dr. Bogen.

Montgomery County Commissioner Jamila Winder says period poverty affects so many people. Now there are period products located in all county buildings within Montgomery County.

“Like as I mentioned earlier, they’re we believe, based on the 2022 census data, that there are over 13,000 females that are living below the poverty line and age 12 to 44 of menstruating age. And so, you know, the poverty challenges aren't just affecting our children. Right. And so, this is you know, people come to our county built buildings to do a lot of business, you know, vie for a marriage license. You might have to go to court for something, taking a walk in one of our parks or playing at one of the playgrounds. So it just really but the continuity of addressing period products, this is a great example from, you know, your schools to where people are doing business, you know, for every day, everyday life, “said Winder.

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