Welcome to the Period Priority Project website. If you clicked on the website, you too advocate for the fact that period supply is a necessity, not a luxury & menstrual hygiene is a human right, not a luxury.
Period Priority Project, founded by Leisha Toory, stands as a local grassroots initiative spearheading the menstrual equity movement. With an impactful reach spanning Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and Yukon, our initiative has made substantial contributions to addressing menstrual health challenges.
Our achievements include the distribution of over 22,000 pads, tampons, liners, menstrual cups, and period underwear. Additionally, we have conducted free reusable cloth pad sewing workshops for students, established free period product baskets in gender-inclusive washrooms across campuses in Newfoundland and Labrador, and hosted a Spotify Period Positivity Podcast featuring insightful episodes on various topics, including endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, navigating menstruation as a plus-size woman, and period poverty in Indigenous communities.
Furthermore, the Period Priority Project has conducted presentations on period poverty and menstrual equity in schools, offering a valuable educational component. We have curated a free digital resource bank comprising presentations and menstrual health handbooks, contributing to the dissemination of knowledge on menstrual health.
Our commitment extends to advocacy through published papers on critical issues such as period poverty, period stigma, and policies for periods in local and national papers. Notably, the Period Priority Project has been nominated for the prestigious Human Rights Award 2022.
Being the first initiative of its kind in Newfoundland and Labrador, Period Priority Project is distinguished as the sole group dedicated solely to advancing menstrual equity. We remain steadfast in our mission to foster positive change, break down societal barriers, and champion the cause of menstrual health for all.
1) Why did I choose this project?
I remember back in school, all my friends would talk
about how their moms would say how expensive pads are and we would all agree. But then
again, this was a conversation we would have amongst ourselves, and we would not question it.
We would just be making the statement that period supply is costly and now I think that is the
first step to subconsciously normalizing the high cost of menstrual products.
After all there is an undeniable normalized culture of silence around the topic of menstruation in conversations which is why many folks who menstruate have had recourse to various euphemisms rather than saying “menstruation” or “period”. When we fail to question the high cost of period supply, and when we refuse to abolish this stigma around menstruation by openly talking about it, we are actively taking part in maintaining period inequity. The first step to advocate for period equity is acknowledging that menstruation is a normal function and comfortably talk about it.
Getting into adulthood is when I really started questioning why menstrual products are so
expensive when they are a necessity, not a luxury. I’ve been taught to be grateful for all the basic
needs I have access to because there are individuals struggling every day to afford basic needs.
And in this case, while I have the privilege to talk about how costly period supply is but then I
am buying it every time I need it, there are folks who make use of anything other than safe
menstrual products. Moreover, with the high rate of homelessness in NL, I can’t imagine how
many people are struggling to find a roof under their head and must choose between bed, food
and period supply. As someone who menstruates, this does not sit right with me.
So far, with a small project, I have not achieved much but I wanted to start somewhere. I figured
if I did my research on statistical data on period poverty in Canada, talk about the culture of
silence around menstruation, drop off menstrual products to different shelters, this would
gradually encourage others to acknowledge that menstruation is a normal function and hopefully
the donations would make sure that at least one person is using safe tampons or pads.
I wanted to use food banks as a blueprint. We have grocery stores in NL, but we also have food
insecurity which is why we have food banks. Likewise, period poverty is prevalent in our
community. We have pharmacies and grocery stores, but we do not have a period supply bank.
And that is my goal with the Period Priority Project: it is a modest period supply bank that relies
on donations which are dropped off at shelters.
2)What are my concerns with period poverty?
Period poverty is prevalent in all communities. There are people who menstruate and have no
access and cannot afford safe menstrual products. It is alarming and heartbreaking that there are people who menstruate who are forcefully deprived of good menstrual hygiene.
Poor menstrual hygiene can cause physical health risk and is linked to reproductive and urinary
tract infections, explaining why affordability, accessibility and safety of menstrual hygiene
products are important.
3) What is my goal?
To make a difference with each period supply donation, so that there's one less person who has
to worry about the accessibility and affordability of the most basic necessity- hygienic menstrual
products.
4) How can people genuinely support the Period Priority Project?
Through donation of sanitary pads and/or tampons and/or menstrual cups. The kindness of the
community is the backbone of the Period Priority Project. It’s a project by kindness, for the human right of menstrual health/ hygiene.
5) Who has inspired me ?
I have learnt from a very young age that the most fulfilling and rewarding experience comes
from giving back to the community and making a difference with the simplest actions.
And the
people who taught me this life-changing and powerful force are my parents. Even at the time
when they had very little, they would always keep something aside to donate to make a
difference. Up to this day, my family fervently gives back to the community and every time, they
remind me that giving back to the community and making a difference is the most valuable deed
in life.
This is why I give back to the community: to make a difference one small step at a time.
1) Oct 25, 2021
"Students will be able to discreetly, and without embarrassment, to access the products that
they need," said Furey. "No shame. No guilt. No time missed."
Newfoundland and Labrador now become the fifth province in Canada, following British
Columbia, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Ontario, to provide the products in school washrooms.
2) A survey conducted in 2019 by Plan International Canada showed 63% of women and girls have regularly or occasionally missed an activity because of their period and their concerns about not being able to access menstrual hygiene products or washrooms. The report also noted that 34% of women and girls have had to sacrifice regularly or occasionally something else within their budget to afford menstrual products.
3) It is estimated that the average person who menstruates will spend up to $6,000 in their lifetime
on menstrual hygiene (CBC News) products. Those living in rural or Indigenous communities
can pay double the price for the same products found in larger cities such as Toronto. For those
living in the territories, the cost is even higher.
For example, in 2018, a woman living in Nunavut
paid $15 to $18 per box of tampons or pads, whereas in Vancouver the same items cost between
$3 to $11. Not only are the products’ costs prohibitive, in these communities, they may be
unavailable if cargo doesn’t arrive.
4) The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the situation. A report done by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives in March 2021, showed that the largest employment losses since the start of the pandemic have been in jobs that are low-wage and precarious and are staffed mostly by females.
Many of the women are from racialized communities; there is also a high rate of individuals with disabilities. Women who had already been struggling to afford basic needs such as food have now been placed under more extreme financial stress, which leads to making choices between food, rent, and menstrual products.
Why are menstrual hygiene products important?
Poor menstrual hygiene can cause physical health risks and has been linked to reproductive and urinary tract infections, explaining why affordability, accessibility and safety of menstrual hygiene products are important.
The “Period Priority Project: Period Positivity” is the second part of the Period Priority Project.
It aims at banishing the taboos and
normalizing conversations on menstruation by encouraging open and inclusive
discussions on menstruation.
Period positivity starts with knowledge and starting a conversation is a simple yet impactful first step.
Period Positivity Podcast is now on Spotify & Ancho FM!
Number of Menstrual Products Distributed till Date: 24791
Thank you to Kathy for putting together 2000 period products for Period Priority Project and will be dropping them off to Thrive NL!
We're so proud to share that we purchased and shipped 2130 pads and tampons to Quad NL!
And with this donation, Period Priority Project has now distributed over 20,000 period products across Canada since May 2022!
110 menstrual cups and pads have been dropped off for the NL Sexual Assault and Prevention Centre today!
2 dispensers with a capacity of 50 pads and 50 tampons each as well as a refill of 1000 pads and 1000 tampons have been installed in the town of Paradise!
We dropped off 529 period products for the Community Care Mount Pearl!
Thanks to a generous $1000 monetary donation, Period Priority Project dropped off 925 pads and tampons for the Safe Works Access Program!
The free menstrual products stations in the gender inclusive washrooms in the Arts and Administration building and the QEII library have been refilled with a total of 70 pads and tampons.
Thank you to Laurabel for dropping off 726 pads, tampons, liners, period underwear and menstrual cups on behalf of Period Priority Project for First Light NL.
Period Priority Project dropped off 512 period products for Thrive today, March 3!
We dropped off 6 menstrual cups for PWC Social Justice Club today!
Today, Feb 13, Period Priority Project dropped off 20 Size 2 menstrual cups for Mothers of Avalon!
We distributed 12 menstrual cups, 12 DivaCup wash, and menstrual health educational pamphlets for Juniper House (Indigenous Student Resource Centre) today, Feb 10!
Period Priority Project dropped off 236 pads, tampons and liners for MUN Faculty today, Feb 6!
Today, Feb 3, I had the wonderful opportunity to give a presentation on the fight for period equity and all things advocacy to the amazing students at Lakecrest School.
Thank you Natasha for inviting me to share about my advocacy journey & for the chance to learn from the inspiring students too about their respective community projects!
Period Priority Project dropped off 206 period products for the Juniper House -Indigenous Student Resource Centre today, Jan 26!
Today, Jan 25 2023, 372 period products have been shipped to the Circling Buffalo Inc (previously Manitoba First Nations Family Violence Prevention) in Manitoba.
Both free menstrual products stations in the gender inclusive washrooms at the Arts and Administration building lobby have been refilled today with 10 pads and 10 tampons each today, Jan 24!
490 period products for refill and 4 baskets have been dropped off for the College of the North Atlantic (Corner Brook) today, Dec 21!
Thank you for supporting the Period Priority Project and for making period products accessible for your students!
Yesterday, Dec 13, Period Priority Project dropped off 230 period products for Big Brothers Big Sisters !
Yesterday, Dec 13, Period Priority Project distributed 216 period products for refill and 4 baskets for the Marine Institute!
If you're a student at Marine Institute, make sure to ask where you can find the free menstrual products stations !
All 4 free menstrual products stations have been refilled with 10 pads and 10 tampons today Dec 12, 2022!
Thank you to Municipalities NL for such a generous donation of menstrual products!
Dec 5,2022:
Thank you to Rhea from CHMR Radio for giving Period Priority Project the platform to amplify the menstrual experience and break stereotypes & stigma around the normal biological function of menstruation!
I had the opportunity to interview Katie Hayward of Juniper House- Stay tuned!
217 period products have been distributed to Inclusion Canada NL today, Dec 2, 2022!
438 period products have been dropped off at the St. John's College for refill for their free menstrual products station in their gender inclusive washroom on Nov 25, 2022.
Period Priority Project dropped off 403 period products for the Lifewise NL today, Nov 8!
Today, Nov 7, 3 free menstrual products stations at Memorial University have been refilled with a total of 80 period products!
Period Priority Project received a generous donation of menstrual products from Sarah Boudreau today! Thank you for your generosity and support!
Newfoundland & Labrador Hydro did a "Tampon Tuesday" campaign at the office and Sonali Roy dropped off some for the Period Priority Project; thank you for your generosity!
250 period products have been shipped to the NunatuKavut Community Council in Happy Valley Goose Bay today, October 26!
250 period products have been shipped to the Accessibility Employment Corporation in Clarenville today, October 26!
Period Priority Project has distributed 6 period underwear to Gaayathri!
Period Priority Project has distributed 6 period underwear to Julia!
Period Priority Project received a generous & anonymous donation of menstrual products!
Thank you to Kate for helping me transport the products!
So thankful for their support!
Stay tuned for updates!!
Period Priority Project dropped off 518 menstrual products for Port aux Basques that MHA Andrew Parsons will distribute.
Thank you for supporting the project!
Today, October 22, Period Priority Project received a generous donation of menstrual products from Amanda!
Thanks Amanda for supporting the Period Priority Project!
Period Priority Project distributed 6 period underwear to Rachel today!
Period Priority Project distributed 6 period underwear to Natalie today !
In the coming days, Period Priority Project will distribute the period underwear to those who expressed interest.
Stay tuned!
Period Priority Project refilled the free menstrual products stations at AA2018A, AA2018B (Arts and Administration Lobby gender inclusive washrooms) and L3020 (QEII Library gender inclusive washroom) today!
Thank you to Madison for this thoughtful donation of menstrual products!
Period Priority Project dropped off 482 period products for the Mothers of Avalon on Saturday, Oct 1!
Today, Oct 4, Period Priority Project has dropped off 400 Menstrual Products for shipment to the Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton.
Period Priority Project has proudly partnered with Bruce Brenton, clothing/textile teacher at the Prince of Wales Collegiate (PWC) to host a reusable cloth pad sewing workshop for PWC and MUNL students!
We had our information and introductory session today where Leisha talked about the Period Priority Project and students started working on the patterns!
Here's to a great beginning of a lovely sustainable initiative!
Thank you to the Office Of The Vice-President Advancement And External Relations for participating!
Today, Oct 3, 3 free menstrual products stations at Memorial University have been refilled with 20 pads and 20 tampons each!
Period Priority Project has proudly partnered with Bruce Brenton, clothing/textile teacher at the Prince of Wales Collegiate (PWC)to host a reusable cloth pad sewing workshop for PWC and MUNL students!
Here's to a great beginning of a lovely sustainable initiative!
Stay tuned for updates!
Today, Oct 2, 2022, over 1200 menstrual products have been purchased thanks to a generous monetary donation!
Thank you to Mothers of Avalon for giving Period Priority Project the wonderful opportunity to be part of the Mothers of Avalon Fundraising Market !
Thank you to everyone who stopped by to say hi, to learn about the project, to send along e-transfers and to say "Hey I saw you on TV!"
Thank you for this lovely day!
A total of 2052 period products have been shipped to Port Aux Basques, Burnt Islands, Stephenville and Eskasoni, Nova Scotia within 3 days.
Thank you to the community for dropping off generous in-kind donations, for sending along generous e-transfers, and for sharing the word!
512 period products have been shipped to the Newfoundland Aboriginal Women's Network in Stephenville.
A total of 2052 menstrual products have been shipped to Port Aux Basques, Burnt Islands, Stephenville and Eskasoni, Nova Scotia!
After shipping 1024 period products to Port Aux Basques and Burnt Islands on September 26,2022, today, September 27, 2022, 516 products were shipped to the Eskasoni Mi'kmaw Nation Band Council in Nova Scotia!
Today, September 26, 2022, Period Priority Project dropped off 1024 period products for shipments to Port Aux Basques and Burnt Islands!
On September 26, 2022, Period Priority Project received two separate generous donations of tampons - one from MUNSU and one from Jeremy.
Thank you for your generosity and support!
Thank you to Kristi for dropping off a generous donation of tampons today, September 25, 2022, that will be distributed across Port Aux Basques, Burnt Island and Cape Breton!
On September 23, 2022 , Period Priority Project received a generous monetary donation from the Association for New Canadians NL which was used to purchase over 1200 pads.
On the same day, Jill dropped off a thoughtful donation of pads!
On September 24, 2022, Heather Reid sent along a generous monetary donation that will be used to ship menstrual products to communities affected by Hurricane Fiona such as Port aux Basques, Burnt Island and Cape Breton.
Thank you for your generosity!
Today, Sep 21, Period Priority Project dropped off a large flat rate shipping box of 400 menstrual products for shipment to the Status of Women Central in Grand Falls Windsor, NL!
Both free menstrual products stations in the gender inclusive washrooms at the Arts and Administration Lobby have been refilled today, Sep 21!
Period Priority Project refilled the free menstrual products station in the gender inclusive washroom on the 3rd floor of the QEII Library today, Sep 21 with 20 pads and 20 tampons!
On August 18,2022 Period Priority Project was awarded the Social Justice Cooperative NL's Small Activity Fund of $100.
On September 19,2022 Period Priority Project purchased 422 menstrual products with the $100 for shipment to the PEI's Lennox Island First Nation Emergency Shelter.
Today, with the remaining money from the $100 awarded by the Social Justice Cooperative NL , a large flat rate shipping box was purchased and filled with 400 menstrual products.
The box has been dropped off to Canada Post for shipment to Lennox Island First Nation in Prince Edward Island!
Sep 14, 2022
Thank you to the Student Wellness and Counselling Centre at Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador for participating!
Sep 14, 2022
Thank you Patricia for this generous and thoughtful donation of reusable bags that will be used for the "Host a Donation Bag" and for drop-off of menstrual products to shelters!
Sep 13, 2022
Thank you to the Sexual Harassment Office at Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador for participating!
Instead of hosting period drives, Period Priority Project is starting with a smaller (but equally impactful!) initiative : Leisha will give you a small grocery shopping bag and you can share at your workplace/organization that you are collecting period products for donations!
On September 7, 2022, Period Priority Project dropped off 100 pads and 100 tampons each for the AIDS Committee of Newfoundland and Labrador & The Gathering Place!
On September 4, 2022, Period Priority Project's free menstrual products stations in the following gender inclusive washrooms have been refilled with 10 pads and 10 tampons each :
AA2018A, AA2018B and CSF 4200C
AA2018A and AA2018B : Arts and Administration building entrance gender inclusive washrooms
CSF4200C : New Science Building (the one with the whale) , 4th floor gender inclusive washroom
On September 3, 2022, Period Priority Project purchased 500 pads!
Stay tuned for drop off updates!
In September 2, 2022, Period Priority Project received a donation of around 600 tampons!
Thank you Jennifer for this generous donation of tampons!
Period Priority Project dropped off 100 pads and 100 tampons to the Single Parent Association NL on September 2, 2022!
Thank you to the Single Parent Association for supporting the Period Priority Project!
Period Priority Project dropped off 211 pads and 236 tampons to the Elizabeth Fry Society NL , on September 1, 2022, who will in turn distribute them to the women in Clarenville prison.
On August 31,2022, Period Priority Project received a donation of around 200 pads and tampons!
Thank you Courtney for this generous donation!
A second large flat rate shipping box has been filled with 200 pads and 200 tampons on August 31,2022 and shipped to Grace Sparkes House in Marystown, NL🥳
One large flat rate shipping box has been filled with 200 pads and 200 tampons on August 31,2022 and shipped to the Victoria Faulkner Women's Centre in Yukon!
Period Priority Project received a generous monetary donation of $500 from an anonymous donor on September 29, 2022.
400 pads and 440 tampons were then purchased as well as 2 flat rate shipping boxes ( for the Victoria Faulkner Women's Centre in Yukon and the Grace Sparkes House in Marystown NL) on August 30, 2022.
Period Priority Project is always grateful and thankful to have the support of the community.
Thank you for supporting your local menstrual movement!
Period Priority Project has proudly partnered with the amazing Social Justice Cooperative NL to make DivaCup menstrual products accessible to those who wish to use them.
Thank you to Diva Cup for the generous donation!
On August 19, Period Priority Project has distributed two free menstrual products stations with 10 pads and 10 tampons each as well as 100 pads and 100 tampons for refill!
Thanks to a monetary donation received on August 3, 2022, Period Priority Project was able to purchase 3 baskets (which will be used as free menstrual products stations) and some menstrual products.
Period Priority Project extends its gratitude and thanks to the community for the kindness, generosity and support!
On Aug 3, Period Priority Project had the privilege to chat with Bruce Brenton, textile professor at Prince of Wales Collegiate, about how we can work together to provide sustainable menstrual products to folx who need them.
Period Priority Project is so excited to be on board!
On Aug 1, the free menstrual products station in the gender inclusive washroom on the third floor of the Queen Elizabeth Library has been refilled. Period Priority Project hopes that it helps a little!
July 6, 2022 marks 2 months since Period Priority Project was founded and since 4940 menstrual products have been distributed to 18 shelters, shipped to Nain, Rigolet, Yukon and Happy Valley Goose Bay as well 4 free menstrual products stations have been set up in the gender inclusive washrooms at Memorial University.
Period Priority Project would like to extend its gratitude and thankfulness to the community for the immense support, kindness and generosity!
Today, July 8, the free menstrual products station at the QEII Library's gender inclusive washroom was refilled with 10 pads and 10 tampons!
Today, July 8 , Period Priority Project dropped off 100 pads and 100 tampons for Empower NL.
Period Priority Project thanks Empower NL for believing in the project and hopes that this small donation makes a little difference!
Today, July 7 , Period Priority Project dropped off 100 pads and 100 tampons for the Newfoundland & Labrador Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre.
The Period Priority Project thanks the Newfoundland & Labrador Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre for believing in the project and hopes that this small donation makes a little difference!
Today, July 7 , Period Priority Project dropped off 100 pads and 100 tampons for the Mothers of Avalon.
The Period Priority Project thanks the Mothers of Avalon for believing in the project and hopes that this small donation makes a little difference!
Today, July 6 , Period Priority Project dropped off 100 pads and 100 tampons for the Cara Transition House in Gander, NL.
The Period Priority Project thanks the Cara Transition House for believing in the project and hopes that this small donation makes a little difference!
On June 1, the 2 boxes filled with 200 pads and 200 tampons were dropped off at Canada Post to be shipped to Nain.
Below is a picture of Nain Youth Outreach - Amy Maggo delivering menstrual products to the Nain Emergency Shelter.
Thank you for believing in Period Priority Project!
On July 4, Period Priority Project received a generous monetary donation from which 500 tampons and 500 pads were purchased.
Period Priority Project extends its gratitude and thanks to Dr. Deatra Walsh for dropping off a generous donation of menstrual products on June 24.
Thank you Dr. Deatra Walsh for supporting the Period Priority Project!
On June 23, the free menstrual products station in the gender inclusive washroom on the third floor of the QEII Library at Memorial University was refilled with 10 pads and 10 tampons.
Period Priority Project extends its gratitude and thanks to Jennifer Williams for dropping off a generous donation of menstrual products today, June 21.
On June 13, 2022, Period Priority Project set up 3 more free menstrual products stations at Memorial University.
Locations:
1. Arts and Administration Lobby ( AA2018A & AA2018B)
2. Core Science Facility 4th Floor ( CSF 4200C)
3. QEII Library 3rd Floor (L3020)
Total Number of Menstrual Products Distributed: 75
On June 15, Period Priority Project purchased 2 large flat rate shipping boxes and filled them up with 200 pads and 200 tampons each.
Each box contains 400 menstrual products and has been shipped to Yukon for Dawson Women's Shelter & to Happy Valley Goose Bay for Libra House.
Period Priority Project thanks both Dawson Women's Shelter & Libra House for supporting the project and hopes that this small donation makes a little difference!
On June 15, Period Priority Project purchased 2 large flat rate shipping boxes and filled them up with 200 pads and 200 tampons each.
Each box contains 400 menstrual products and has been shipped to Yukon for Dawson Women's Shelter & to Happy Valley Goose Bay for Libra House.
Period Priority Project thanks both Dawson Women's Shelter & Libra House for supporting the project and hopes that this small donation makes a little difference!
On June 13, 2022, Period Priority Project set up 3 more free menstrual products stations at Memorial University.
Locations:
1. Arts and Administration Lobby ( AA2018A & AA2018B)
2. Core Science Facility 4th Floor ( CSF 4200C)
3. QEII Library 3rd Floor (L3020)
Total Number of Menstrual Products Distributed: 75
On June 12, 2022, 3 free menstrual products stations were prepared to be set up in 3 different gender inclusive washrooms at Memorial University.
Each basket contains 10 pads and 10 tampons each, and will be refilled from time to time, as required. Stay tuned for updates!
Period Priority Project has distributed a total of 1000 menstrual products during the week of June 6 to June 10!
On June 6, 2022, Period Priority Project dropped off 200 menstrual products to Thrive NL and Violence Prevention Avalon East each.
On June 8, Period Priority Project dropped off 200 menstrual products at the Association for New Canadians NL.
On June 9, Period Priority Project dropped off 400 menstrual products at the North Star Child and Youth Advocacy Centre.
The Period Priority Project extends its gratitude and thanks to the community for the support, kindness and generosity!
On June 9, Period Priority Project dropped off 200 pads and 200 tampons at the North Star Child and Youth Advocacy Centre.
Period Priority Project thanks North Star Child and Youth Advocacy Centre for supporting the project and hopes that this small donation makes a little difference!
On June 8, Period Priority Project dropped off 200 pads at the Association for New Canadians NL.
Period Priority Project thanks the Association for New Canadians NL for supporting the project and hopes that this small donation makes a little difference!
On June 6, Period Priority Project dropped off 100 pads and 100 tampons at Thrive.
Period Priority Project thanks Thrive for supporting the project and hopes that this small donation makes a little difference!
On June 6, Period Priority Project dropped off 100 pads and 100 tampons at the Violence Prevention Avalon East.
Period Priority Project thanks Violence Prevention Avalon East for supporting the project and hopes that this small donation makes a little difference!
Period Priority Project has proudly distributed a total of 1800 menstrual products during the week of May 31 to June 3, 2022!
200 menstrual products were distributed to Elizabeth Fry Society NL, Choices for Youth, Pottle Centre, Easter Seals NL and Little Free Pantries each.
400 menstrual products were shipped to Nain and Rigolet each.
The Period Priority Project extends its gratitude and thanks to the community for the support, kindness and generosity!
On June 3, Period Priority Project dropped off 100 pads and 100 tampons for the Little Free Pantries, in addition to 2 shampoo bottles, 2 conditioner bottles, 2 soap bars and 49 liners.
Period Priority Project thanks the Little Free Pantries for supporting the project and hopes that this small donation makes a little difference!
On June 3, Period Priority Project dropped off 100 pads and 100 tampons for the Easter Seals NL.
Period Priority Project thanks Easter Seals NL for supporting the project and hopes that this small donation makes a little difference!
On June 3, Period Priority Project dropped off 100 pads and 100 tampons at the Pottle Centre.
Period Priority Project thanks the Pottle Centre for supporting the project and hopes that this small donation makes a little difference!
On June 1, Period Priority Project dropped off a donation of 100 pads and 100 tampons for the Choices for Youth.
Period Priority Project extends its gratitude and thanks to the Choices for Youth for believing in and supporting the Period Priority Project and hopes that this small donation makes a little difference!
On June 1, 2022, Period Priority Project received a generous monetary donation from Association for New Canadians NL, from which 520 pads and 538 tampons were purchased as well as a large flat rate shipping box.
On June 1, 2022, the flat rate shipping box was filled with 200 pads and 200 tampons and shipped to Rigolet NL after discussing about the Period Priority Project to the Nunatsiavut Government Department of Health and Social Development.
The Period Priority Project extends its gratitude and thanks to the Nunatsiavut Government for supporting the Period Priority Project!
On June 1, Period Priority Project received a generous monetary donation from the Association for New Canadians NL.
On June 1, Period Priority Project purchased 520 pads and 538 tampons & a large flat rate shipping box.
Stay tuned for updates!
After discussing about the Period Priority Project to the Nunatsiavut Government Department of Health and Social Services Development, Period Priority Project shipped 400 menstrual products to the Nain Youth Centre who will in turn distribute the menstrual products to shelters in the area.
On May 31, 2 flat rate shipping boxes were purchased from Canada Post.
On June 1, the 2 boxes filled with 200 pads and 200 tampons were dropped off at Canada Post to be shipped to Nain.
The Period Priority Project extends its gratitude and thanks to the Nunatsiavut Government and the Nain Youth Centre for supporting the Period Priority Project!
On June 1, Period Priority Project received a generous monetary donation from the Association for New Canadians NL.
Period Priority Project extends its gratitude and thanks to the Association for New Canadians for their support, kindness and generosity!
Thank you ANC NL for supporting and believing in the Period Priority Project!
On May 31, Period Priority Project received a generous donation of menstrual products from MHA Joedy Wall.
The Period Priority Project extends its gratitude and appreciation to MHA Joedy Wall!
Thank you MHA Joedy Wall for supporting the Period Priority Project!
On May 31, Period Priority Project refilled the free menstrual products station in the gender inclusive washroom on the third floor of the QEII Library at Memorial University.
The Period Priority Project thanks Memorial University for supporting the Period Priority Project!
On May 31, Period Priority Project dropped off 100 pads and 100 tampons for the Elizabeth Fry Society NL.
The Period Priority Project thanks Elizabeth Fry Society NL for supporting the Period Priority Project and hopes that this small donation makes a little difference!
On May 28, 2022, Period Priority Project received a generous donation of 180 pads, 49 liners, 2 soap bars, 2 shampoo bottles & 2 conditioner bottles.
The kindness of the community is the backbone of the Period Priority Project. It is a project by kindness, for the human right of menstrual health.
Thank you to the community for your support and kindness!
Stay tuned for drop-off updates!
On May 27, 2022, Period Priority Project purchased 884 pads and 756 tampons , thanks to a generous monetary donation.
On May 27, 2022, Period Priority Project assorted some of the 884 pads and 756 tampons purchased into 3 bags.
Each bags contains 200 menstrual products.
Stay tuned for drop-off updates!
On May 27, 2022, Period Priority Project purchased 884 pads and 756 tampons , thanks to a generous monetary donation.
The Period Priority Project extends its gratitude to the community of St. John's. The kindness of the community is the backbone of the project. It is a project by kindness, for the human right of menstrual health.
May 26, 2022
With Menstrual Hygiene/Health Day 2022 coming up on May 28, Period Priority Project would like to highlight that not all cisgender women menstruate & not all those who menstruate are cisgender women. The project uses the term "people who menstruate" & encourages others to do so.
To share this message & encourage others, Period Priority Project has set up a free & modest menstrual products station in the gender inclusive washroom on the third floor of the QEII Library at Memorial University , with permission.
Humble request to share the word and hope it helps a little!
The Period Priority Project has proudly distributed a total of 400 menstrual products during the week of May 16 to May 20, 2022.
A total of 400 menstrual products were dropped off to 2 women shelters (Stella's Circle Naomi Centre & the Iris Kirby House), 1 indigenous organization (First Light NL) and 1 food bank (Bridges to Hope Food Aid Centre).
Today, May 20, 2022, Period Priority Project dropped off 60 tampons and 40 pads at the Bridges to Hope Food Aid Centre.
With the Menstrual Hygiene Day 2022 coming up on May 28, Period Priority Project wants to share the fact that food banks need menstrual products too.
Period Priority Project thanks Bridges to Hope Food Aid Centre for believing in the Project and hopes that this small donation makes a little difference!
With Menstrual Hygiene Day coming up on May 28 2022, the Period Priority Project has a few things planned:
1) purchase of a few menstrual products
2) drop off to a foodbank
This Menstrual Hygiene Day 2022, the Period Priority Project wants to share the message that food banks need menstrual products too.
On May 19, 2022, the Period Priority Project dropped off 60 tampons and 40 pads at the First Light NL (Bannerman Street).
Period Priority Project thanks First Light NL for believing in the project and hopes that this small donation makes a little difference!
On May 19, 2022, 60 tampons and 40 pads were dropped off at the Iris Kirby House.
Period Priority Project thanks Iris Kirby House for believing in the project and hopes that this small donation makes a little difference!
On May 17, 2022, the Period Priority Project dropped off 60 tampons and 40 pads at the Naomi's Centre.
The Period Priority Project thanks Stella's Circle Naomi Centre for believing in the Project and hopes that this small donation makes a little difference!
On May 10, 2022 , the Period Priority Project received a generous donation of 132 pads and 190 tampons from the St. John's Status of Women Council.
On May 13, 2022, 3 bags of 60 tampons and 40 pads each were prepared for drop-offs to 3 different shelters currently low in period supply.
Stay tuned for drop-offs updates!
May 10, 2022
The Period Priority Project extends its gratitude & thankfulness to the wonderful St. John's Status of Women Council for their generous donation of tampons and pads this morning!
With this donation, the project can now start fulfilling its goal of period equity.
On June 1, Period Priority Project dropped off a donation of 100 pads and 100 tampons for the Choices for Youth.
“Menstrual products are a fundamental and basic need for people who have periods. These products are an additional, costly expense and often result in vulnerable young people making difficult financial choices. With support from our community, Choices for Youth (CFY) offers these products to program participants. Thank you to the Period Priority Project for donating to CFY and supporting young people to have accessibility, affordability, and safety of menstrual products.” - Choices for Youth
Period Priority Project extends its gratitude to Choices for Youth for their kind words!
On June 9, Period Priority Project dropped off 200 pads and 200 tampons at the North Star Child and Youth Advocacy Centre.
"Thank you Period Priority Project and Leisha Toory...your generous donation and kindness will go a long way in supporting children and youth of NL who visit North Star.
“Kindness is a gift everyone can afford to give” 💙 "
- North Star Child and Youth Advocacy Centre
Period Priority Project extends its gratitude to North Star Child and Youth Advocacy Centre for their kind words!
On May 31, Period Priority Project dropped off 200 menstrual products for the Elizabeth Fry Society NL.
These are the words of one of the clients who received the donation:
"Having received this care package from Elizabeth Fry including the proper type of period products, I don't have to take money out of my check and that extra $20.00 can provide school snacks for my daughter. "
On May 19, 2022, Period Priority Project dropped off 100 menstrual products at the First Light NL.
"The donation of menstrual products allows First Light to provide support to those who need it most. We thank the Period Priority Project for choosing to support the urban Indigenous community." - First Light NL
Period Priority Project extends its gratitude to First Light NL for its kind words!
On May 19, 2022, Period Priority Project dropped off 60 tampons and 40 pads at the Iris Kirby House.
"Thank you, Period Priority Project, for thinking about the women and girls who access services at Iris Kirby House. Having menstruation products available to them is one less stressor for them to worry about in a time when they need kindness most. Thank you for your support." - Iris Kirby House
Period Priority Project extends its gratitude to the Iris Kirby House for the kind words!
On May 17, 2022, the Period Priority Project dropped off 60 tampons and 40 pads at the Naomi Centre.
"Thanks so much for your generous donation. Your donation of menstruation products will be given to residence and/or formers of our shelter.
Thanks for your kindness" - Stella's Circle Naomi Centre.
Period Priority Project extends its gratitude to Stella's Circle Naomi Centre for the kind words!
Period shaming also looks like shaming each other about what type of menstrual products we choose to use. Menstruation is painful and emotionally draining for so many folks; choosing to period shame is not nice.
Period leaks are normal and very common. Acting embarrassed for someone who got a period stain sends out the message that the person should feel embarrassed.
Periods happen, so do period leaks & period stains. Choosing to period shame is not nice.
Period shaming can also take the form of a joke. Period stigma manifests with accusations that a person is PMS-ing or menstruating if they are perceived as behaving in a sensitive, sharp, or aggressive manner.
Be nice, change the discourse because period shaming is not nice.
The “Period Priority Project: Period Positivity” aims at banishing the taboos and normalizing conversations on menstruation by encouraging open and inclusive discussions on menstruation. Period positivity starts with knowledge and starting a conversation is a simple yet impactful first step.
A little over a year ago, on June 24, 2022, the US Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, the landpiece mark of legislation that made access to an abortion a federal right in the United States. With a view to open discussions on sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), as a sexual and reproductive health and rights activist and the founder of the only menstrual justice-focused grassroots initiative in Newfoundland and Labrador, I am proud to share that Period Priority Project is launching “The SRHR Conversation” - a series of conversations on SRHR through different medium (newspaper articles, photo activism, etc).
OH HEY, FOR BEST VIEWING, YOU'LL NEED TO TURN YOUR PHONE
