UA Little Rock Provides Free Period Products to Campus Community
UA Little Rock has made a significant effort to support menstrual health and hygiene by providing free period products across its campus.
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The Initiative Details
The university has partnered with the Aunt Flow Initiative to make these products readily available to its students and staff. This collaboration has led to the installation of period product dispensers at 10 strategic locations across the campus.
This initiative is pivotal in addressing the issue of period poverty, ensuring that everyone in the UA Little Rock community has access to essential menstrual care items despite financial constraints.
Addressing Period Poverty in Arkansas
This move contributes to the broader efforts in Arkansas to tackle period poverty. The state has seen various initiatives, such as the “Party with a Purpose” event organized by a COPH employee, which collected feminine hygiene items to distribute to those in need. Similarly, the Student Government Association at the University of Central Arkansas (UCA) has also made free period products available on their campus.
The Kind Project, in partnership with the Medium, has also launched an experimental program called Hello Departures to provide easy access to period products in downtown Springdale. This program is particularly notable for its inclusive design, aiming to combat societal taboos around menstruation.
Impact on the Community
UA Little Rock’s decision to provide free period products will have a substantial impact on the campus community. It will not only enhance the quality of life for students and staff who menstruate but also help break down stigmas associated with menstruation. In a region where sexual education is limited and queer and trans-phobic attitudes exist, this initiative takes a crucial step towards promoting inclusivity and support.