Menstrual Freedom Program

Exciting News… This program is now open!

ABOUT PROGRAM

Our newest program is here to give BIPOC menstruators the freedom to be a part of essential activities and not be excluded due to a lack of menstrual products.

Did you know that up to 70% of menstruators have missed school or work because of their period?

Or that nearly a quarter of Canadian menstruators and a third of menstruators under 25, have reportedly struggled to afford menstrual products for themselves or their dependents?

As an all-women, BIPOC-led and BIPOC-comprised organization, SNIWWOC understands the needs of our community and we are focused on improving their health from a holistic and integrated service model. 

With efforts to be eco-conscious, this program will provide applicants with one reusable menstrual cup to support their period needs. 

The Menstrual Freedom program is funded by The Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem, we thank you for your donation!

ELIGIBILITY 

1. Black Women, Indigenous Women, and Women of Colour, Transgender, Non-binary, and Two-Spirit community menstruators.

2. Must make less than the low-income cut-off line (submit the proof of income) see the table below;

3. A resident of Greater Victoria, BC Canada.

STEPS 

1. Fill out the application.

2. Receive an email from SNIWWOC.

3. Submit proof of income (or household income if you are married/common law). This can include: a current tax return, notice of assessment, or any benefits received from the government (ex. Disability Assistance).

   **Screenshots of bank statements or accounts will not be considered a valid form of proof of income**

4. Submit proof of dependent(s). This can include: health cards, passports, birth certificate, driver's license, school registration, childcare statement, or status card.5. Set up an in-person appointment at SNIWWOC’s Victoria BC office.

5. Set up an appointment to pick up your menstrual cup at the SNIWWOC office in Victoria, BC.

6. Fill out the feedback survey sent via email from SNIWWOC.

How to Clean your Cup?

Nixit recommends cleaning your Nixit menstrual cup at least every 12 hours, using their signature wash, wipes, or water and mild soap.

Between cycles, you can sterilize your cup by boiling it in a pot with plenty of water for at least 5 minutes.

For additional Nixit Menstrual Cup information visit their website Nixit.ca

OUR TEAM

We are an interdisciplinary team of women dedicated to improving the health of racialized women across Canada. We are the community we serve. 

In 2021, a report conducted by United Way BC’s Period Promise Research Project

Showed racialized women in BC face disproportionate challenges in accessing menstrual products, with statistics indicating that 45% of racialized menstruators struggle to purchase menstrual products, and specifically 70% of Indigenous menstruators also struggle to purchase menstrual products. Although these statistics reflect respondents across BC, these findings are also echoed by our own community members. This includes members who have shared that they will have to choose between purchasing menstrual products or paying for essential items like food, housing payments, etc. Furthermore, many of our community members have shared that due to lack of accessibility to menstrual products, it has caused them to miss school, work, or other important events which has consequently negatively impacted their overall wellbeing.