SAULT STE. MARIE --
For the past two years, volunteers in Sault Ste. Marie have collected and given out 1400 “Period Purses” to women in need.
"Each purse has a two month supply of period products. As well as other items, we’ve donated in the past toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant shampoo, conditioners and body washes," said Megan Scott, president of the local Period Purse chapter.
The charity puts the products in purses and hands them out as Christmas presents or just gifts to shelters around town.
This year that won't be the case.
Purses are not being accepted from the public.
"This year due to COVID we have cut back on what we are taking, "said Scott.
"So we are accepting just period products, so that would be tampons and pads. As well as underwear and masks. We just want to limit the contact that we have."
Volunteers have wanted the opportunity to accept financial donations and this year the chapter was able to set that up.
Now people can donate online and not have to worry about going out and buying the hygiene products.
"It’s through Canada Helps and you get a tax receipt instantly. Which is quite nice. We also have an Amazon wish list so you would go on the Amazon there’s a link on our Facebook page or website,” said Scott.
“You would go to Amazon order the products directly and it will get shipped to us so there’s no contact at all."
If you have already purchased some period products that you want to donate, the organization says they can be dropped them off at the contactless drop-off location: Trimount Construction Group Inc, 2-1092 Great Northern Road, Sault Ste. Marie.
Online and drop off donations are being accepted from Oct. 26 to Nov. 15.
