Montana Colleges Addressing Period Poverty
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Authors
Sheridan, Gabrielle
Date of Issue
2024
Type
Presentation
Language
en_US
Subject Keywords
Other Titles
Abstract
Poverty impacts people’s ability to afford many essentials, including menstrual products, and this can be especially challenging for college students already rationing their money. Research indicates that 14.2% of college women have experienced period poverty within the past year, while 48% have encountered difficulties accessing menstrual products due to financial constraints.(Gruer,C) Additionally, nearly 19% have had to prioritize menstrual products over other essential expenses.(Jaafar, H) In response to this issue, colleges across the United States, including institutions in Montana, have initiated efforts to provide tampons and pads in campus restrooms. This research examines how colleges in Montana have begun offering tampons and pads by collecting data from three colleges in Montana. At each location, data on products in restrooms was recorded. Additionally,information on the funding mechanisms and distribution management of these products was collected. The majority of institutions provide some form of period product support to students and others on their campuses. The findings underscore the widespread recognition of the importance of addressing menstrual hygiene accessibility in educational institutions. The prevalence and absence of these practices is analyzed across institutions in order to determine which institutions are likely to provide products and their associated benefits.