When we hear the term period poverty, many of us might picture international destinations where access to basic needs is limited. But the truth is, it’s happening right here at home.
Across Canada, 17% of people who menstruate have experienced period poverty, meaning they couldn’t afford or access the products they needed. Among lower-income households, that number climbs to one in four.
The impact goes far beyond inconvenience. Missing school, work, or community activities because of a lack of period products can limit opportunities, erode confidence and deepen inequality. And as the cost of living rises, more people in our communities are facing this reality every day.
That’s why United Way Halton & Hamilton (UWHH) is committed to advancing menstrual equity through the Period Promise initiative.
Promoting Dignity and Access
Period Promise supports the donation and free distribution of menstrual products across Halton and Hamilton. The initiative also encourages organizations to adopt menstrual equity policies and advocates for inclusive, barrier-free access for everyone who menstruates.
That impact is now growing through a new partnership with joni, a Canadian sustainable period care company dedicated to making high-quality, eco-friendly products accessible to all.
Partnering for Purpose
The partnership is driven by a shared mission: ending period poverty and advancing menstrual equity. By combining UWHH’s deep community connections with joni’s sustainable products and advocacy, both organizations are helping ensure that menstrual care is treated as a basic human right.
“It’s not just about supplying pads and tampons,” says Linda Biggs, co-founder of joni. “It’s about creating change at a systemic level. Access to period care is a right, not a luxury.”
Through this collaboration, joni is providing donated and discounted menstrual products to meet growing demand, helping United Way-supported community agencies stretch their budgets and reach more people in need.
“Period dignity is a human right,” Biggs adds. “No one should be held back because of a biological function. Yet, too many people are. When someone doesn’t have access to period care, they might miss school, work, or social and sports activities. The Period Promise initiative is changing that.”
Unlike conventional pads and tampons made from petroleum-based plastics, joni’s plant-based products are 92% biodegradable, breathable, and gentle on the body; protecting both people and the planet.
Dignity Through Awareness
Biggs emphasizes that menstrual equity can mean the difference between participation and exclusion.
“The kits provided aren’t handouts, they’re a hand up,” says Biggs. “They help people who menstruate show up fully, without shame or interruption. And when you can show up, you can move up in your career, education, and confidence.”
Initiatives like Period Promise spark meaningful conversations, encourage commitments, and help normalize menstruation in public spaces.
“Breaking down barriers like period poverty helps build stronger, more equitable communities for everyone,” Biggs explains. “If we can’t talk about periods openly, we can’t create meaningful change, whether that’s in policy, education, or access.”
Support Period Equity
At United Way, we believe that when barriers are removed, everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
You can be part of this movement.
Click here to learn more about United Way’s impact and donate today to support programs that advance menstrual equity.
Together, we can break barriers, build dignity, and strengthen our community.
