1 product purchased
= 1 product donated
At Iris + Arlo, we believe access to menstrual products should never be a privilege.Â
In the lead-up to World Menstrual Hygiene Day on May 28, we are launching a campaign to raise awareness and create real impact in the fight against period poverty.
From May 14 to 28, for every Iris + Arlo product purchased at Jean Coutu, Iris + Arlo will donate the equivalent amount to Le Chaînon.
What is period poverty ?
Period poverty means not having consistent access to menstrual products, often because of financial barriers. This can force people to choose between managing their periods and meeting other essential needs like food.
- 1 in 6 people who menstruate in Canada has experienced period poverty (1)
- 25% of people who menstruate in low-income households have experienced period poverty (2)
- Nearly 20% of people who menstruate have used alternatives such as toilet paper or cloth due to a lack of menstrual products (3)
Beyond the numbers, this is a matter of dignity, equity, and access to essential care.
Le Chaînon
At Iris + Arlo, we chose to support Le Chaînon that helps women facing extreme vulnerability which also involves challenges related to menstrual health and dignity.
Founded in 1932, Le Chaînon is one of Quebec’s largest resources for women experiencing vulnerability and homelessness.Â
With four buildings and several agreements with private landlords, the organization welcomes and supports more than 2,350 women each year in their journey toward housing independence. It provides emergency and transitional housing, residential units, as well as a range of support services and psychosocial intervention tailored to their needs.Â
Voices joining the conversationÂ
Because menstruation should never be a taboo, several committed ambassadors have generously lent their voices to this campaign in order to help raise awareness about period poverty, make this reality more visible, and move the conversation forward.
The campaign is carried by :
- Geneviève Pettersen, author, host, columnist, screenwriter and speaker
- Marilou Éthier, content creator, entrepreneur, host and author
- Catherine Lafrance-Raymond, physiotherapist specializing in perineal and pelvic rehabilitation
- Lolitta Dandoy, journalist & fashion columnist
Talking about it is already a first step toward change.
How to participateÂ
From May 14 to 28, visit any Jean Coutu to purchase your favourite Iris + Arlo products, and help make a difference.
One simple action. Real Impact.
Thank you for helping make this reality more visible and for supporting this initiative with us.
It’s time for a change, period. 💚
Sources:
(1) et (2) https://www.canada.ca/fr/femmes-egalite-genres/financement/egalite-action/equite-menstruelle.html
(3)https://rqasf.qc.ca/lefilrouge/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/M-a-j-12-10-2023-kit_medias_EN.pdf