WHEREAS, Adequate and timely access to feminine hygiene products (tampons and sanitary pads) is essential for assuring women’s health. It has been reported that a lack of access to such products can cause emotional distress and even physical infection and disease; and
WHEREAS, Women in prisons have had limited access to feminine hygiene products or have had to use their own funds to pay exorbitant costs for these products. Lack of these products during menstruation can have serious health and safety consequences for both the individual inmate and the entire prison population; and
WHEREAS, While homeless shelters offer beds and meals, and some also hand out shampoo, toothbrushes and soap for residents, girls and women require essentials that men do not, including feminine hygiene products; and
WHEREAS, Women and girls who have had inadequate access to feminine hygiene products are more likely to miss work or school. This disproportionately impacts those with low-incomes as programs such as SNAP (food stamps) do not cover the purchase of these products; and
WHEREAS, In June, 2016, the New York City Council was the first legislative body to pass a package of bills to ensure access to menstrual products in public schools, shelters and correction facilities, including youth detention centers; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby calls on the City’s Department of Prisons, Office of Homeless Services and the School District of Philadelphia to provide adequate and free feminine hygiene products to women inmates, shelter residents and students as they are a vital component for the health, well-being and full participation of women and girls in our society.
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