The initiative is run by Share the Dignity, a charity that aims to provide everyone access to these products, a luxury not everyone can afford.
In the nine years since its inception, the charity has been able to deliver over 4,000,000 packets of period products and over 800,000 essential-filled handbags to Australian women, girls and those who menstruate.
“Share the Dignity is a national charity that supports women when they’re in need, whether that is fleeing domestic violence, homelessness and those that are vulnerable; it’s a privilege to assist these women in their time of need,” St Mary’s parishioner Julie Moyle said.
St Mary’s parishioner Glynis Kelly said they issue the products to organisations such as Saint Luke’s Medical Centre, Anglicare and Echuca Neighbourhood House.
“It goes to a local charity, and then they distribute to the women who need it,” she said.
Share the Dignity has teamed up with Woolworths for the March initiative, with collection boxes in stores to make donations as easy as possible.
Share the Dignity founder Rochelle Courtenay wants to emphasise the importance of supporting women in local communities.
“You can donate in any Woolworths store, then we get them to the women who are experiencing homelessness, have fled domestic violence or poverty in your area,” she said.
Ms Courtenay is saddened about the increase in poverty in Australia and that the charity is still required.
“I wish that we weren’t needed and that there was never a role for us to play here, but unfortunately, the problem seems to be getting worse,” she said.
“There is now such a growth in poverty and the working poor who are without the very basic of essentials.”
Yet, Ms Courtenay is pleased to hear that community groups such as St Mary’s Parish are still happy to help and make a difference.
“To hear that there is a local church in Echuca that this matters to, makes me proud,” she said.
Ms Moyle believes the donation drives should be operational year-round.
“A person going through a tough time has a period every month they don’t just have them once, so we need this happening all year,” she said.
While Ms Courtenay dreams that one day Australia can achieve menstrual equity, including equal access to feminine hygiene products and adequate education on menstruation.
“Whilst we keep etching away at the issue, getting to what I call menstrual equity, where everyone can have access to period products and education for boys and girls about menstruation, that’s the ultimate goal,” she said.
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