Free Sanitary Pads for Nunavut School Girls

Key Issue

For many young girls, getting their periods can be an embarrassing experience — especially at school. Among other root causes, it is also noted that a number of adolescent girls in Nunavut’s communities are missing school due to the high costs of sanitary products.

The reality is that a significant number of girls in the territory struggle to cope with their monthly period due to the high cost of sanitary products, as  well as the stigma or taboo associated with a monthly period.

As matter of fact, a pack of 40 counts of a renowned brand of sanitary pads cost $7.99 in Ottawa (Ontario) while the same pack cost $15.99 in Iqaluit (Nunavut). It is reported that some of the girls have resorted to using socks during their monthly period as a result of these exorbitant prices.

The missed school days have long term effects on Nunavut school girls’ education and their self esteem.  More so, missing classes often leads to the likelihood of dropping out of school hence leading to limited career options later in life. It is a fact that lack of access to affordable sanitary products is a global problem. However, we believe that we can make a difference by starting home.

The African & Caribbean Association of Nunavut (ACAN) is taking up the challenge to improve upon on this situation in our Nunavut communities. We are of the opinion that access to the sanitary pads should not be a privilege or luxury but a basic right.

Our Goal

The African & Caribbean Association of Nunavut  (ACAN)  is launching the “Free Sanitary Pads for Nunavut School Girls” to raise funds to buy and distribute packs of sanitary pads to School girls across  Nunavut. The sanitary products will be distributed to middle schools, high schools, and youth centres.

ACAN’s goals are to:

a. Improve school attendance amongst girls across the territory of Nunavut.

b. Support Girls to pursue their education and not worry about their menstrual hygiene as well as empowering adolescent girls not to feel ashamed of their  menstruation and  increase their self-esteem.

c. Promote the basic belief that access to sanitary products should not be a privilege but a basic human Right.

Access to sanitary pads is a Right and must be accessible to all. Therefore, we are taking the first step in offering a helping hand.

Who Are We

The African and Caribbean Association of Nunavut  (ACAN) is a registered community organization whose mission is to foster an inclusive and diverse community where all can live, work and play in harmony. We believe that united, we can build a stronger and healthier community.

ACAN was formed in March 2018 and has members from various origins. To fulfill its missions, ACAN often organizes activities to celebrate and promote the diversity and inclusiveness of our communities, as well as raise awareness on our communities’ social needs and work together with other partners to combat them.