By Wendy Lamond
Many people are unaware that menstrual-hygiene products are one of the most requested yet least donated items at local food banks.
Because of this very reason, in 2009, Mandi Fields of London began the program, Tampon Tuesday, which has been launched in many communities across the country. It involves a social, pop-in gathering of people looking to make a difference by donating menstrual-hygiene products.
Julie Jeffrey was looking for a way to help in St. Marys and, on Tuesday, Sept. 17, hosted the town’s first Tampon Tuesday event. Access to these necessities can be a challenge, especially for those living in poverty or in a vulnerable position. Jeffrey will split the donations between the Salvation Army and the St. Marys Public Library pantry program.
Deputy mayor Brogan Aylward said a few words on behalf of the town, stressing the importance of these events to help remove the barriers and make it easier to assist those that are struggling.
“I want to thank all those that came out for the first St. Marys Tampon Tuesday,” Jeffrey said. “I am overwhelmed and my heart is full to see the outpouring of support for this cause. I will be donating on Friday to the Salvation Army and the public library.”
She is hoping to continue these events every other month with the next Tampon Tuesday event to be held in late November in the hopes of helping residents with financial strain over the Christmas season.
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