Ballina Library has increased its ability to help women living in period poverty with the installation of a Dignity vending machine. The machine has been installed by the charity Share the Dignity, and dispenses free period packs. Each pack contains six tampons and two pads for those who need them.
The library has received the vending machine due to its work with vulnerable women, girls, and those who menstruate. Share the Dignity Founder and Managing Director, Rochelle Courtenay, says she dreamed of finding a way for people who are doing it tough to access free period products.
‘I was shocked to discover that people were using rolled up toilet paper and hand towels to manage their periods,’ said Ms Courtenay.
‘I could not believe that people were having to choose between feeding their family or buying period products. School children should not have to miss school to avoid the embarrassment of not being able to afford pads and tampons.’
As a response, Share the Dignity leapt into action and created the Dignity vending machine. The latest machine has been installed in Ballina Library and dispenses free period packs at the push of a button.
Each Dignity vending machine is programmed with a delivery delay of 10 minutes, to ensure no period packs are wasted.
The last thing on the mind of those doing it tough should be dealing with their period
Ballina Area Librarian, Taryn Kelly said, ‘We’re so very happy to be able to bring this important, free resource to women and young girls in the Ballina Area. Those in need should be able to access these necessities, without the anxiety and shame many feel when asking someone for help.’
Share the Dignity purchase and supply the specially made period packs, which are sponsored by businesses, grants, and donations.
Local volunteers manage the maintenance and stocking of the machines to ensure products are always readily available.
Ballina Library staff say they’re excited to receive this machine to help those experiencing period poverty, but also to help break down the shame and stigma associated with menstruation.
Women are welcome to visit the library and safely and privately access period products that can make a life changing difference.
Those wanting to support Share the Dignity in providing Dignity vending machines, can sponsor a machine or hold a birthday fundraiser to swap gifts for donations which fund the period packs. For more information visit www.sharethedignity.org.au.
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