During the month of August, Maitland MP Jenny Aitchison is asking the people of Maitland to again reach out in support of homeless and displaced women by being part of the 'Share the Dignity' drive.
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Twice a year, Share the Dignity conducts a national drive to collect pads, tampons, menstrual cups, incontinence pads and other items to help homeless and displaced women manage their menstrual periods with dignity.
"As a result of COVID-19 the nation is headed towards its deepest recession since The Great Depression and more and more people are struggling simply to eat and keep the lights on," Ms Aitchison said.
"The number of women experiencing homelessness and fleeing domestic violence is greater now than ever."
Ms Aitchison said that Share the Dignity had partnered with local support agencies to ensure the donations went where they were needed most.
"Feminine hygiene products are not a luxury," Ms Aitchison said. "Women suffering 'period poverty' can experience impacts on their health, hygiene and self-esteem. It can also rob women of opportunities including employment."
Ms Aitchison has again registered her office at 2/12 Elgin Street, Maitland as an official drop-off zone for unopened product donations.
Given the COVID-19 pandemic she is also encouraging people to visit the Share the Dignity website at sharethedignity.org.au and lodge an online donation, or make a purchase in their online store where all profits go towards their mission to end period poverty.
