Kentwood — Students district-wide recently received menstrual hygiene products for free, thanks to a state grant.
Kentwood Public Schools has had two of three planned distributions so far, serving about 500 students with 20 period products per distribution, through the Michigan Department of Education’s Accessible Period Products Program. KPS is one of 15 districts in the state to take part in the pilot program, and received $95,000 in grant funds. The district is partnering with Kent School Services Network to get the pads and tampons to students.
The mission of the program is to meet the basic needs of all students by removing barriers such as cost of products and transportation that may prevent students from obtaining essential items. It’s also about fostering a supportive environment and reducing stigma and shame associated with menstruation, said Alex Corbett, district nurse coordinator.
“We never want to hear that a student is missing a week of school because they can’t afford products,” Corbett said.
Read more from Kentwood:
• District invests in web of support for students’ health, well-being
• Staff supports families with games, hygiene items
