The United Way of Chatham-Kent is once again collecting menstrual products.
This year, the group wil host a "Period Promise Social Celebration" on Thursday, May 28 at Match Eatery in Chatham, from 4 until 7 p.m.
About one in 6 Canadians experience "period poverty" because they're unable to afford menstrual products.
"When you can't afford to purchase those, that keeps young people from going to school, from going to work every day. Which obviously then affects your income and really contributes to low academic performance and lower income," said CEO Lorraine Goddard.
The United Way has been collecting menstrual products for about 10 years.
"They can be distributed to food banks, and shelters, and schools, and places where people who have period poverty can access them," said Goddard.
The goal this year to collect and purchase 1,700 products.
"That will be able to ensure, hopefully for the bulk of the next year, be able to ensure food banks and other locations will have access to these products," said Goddard.
Residents can also drop off donations at the United Way Office at 425 McNaughton Ave. W. in Chatham, or the Tilbury Information & H.E.L.P. Centre on Queens St. N. during regular open hours.
A number of local businesses and schools are also collecting donations, and every one is encouraged to bring their donations to the event on Thursday.
"If you're in workplace, do a drive to collect those products and drop them off, and stay and visit," said Goddard. "We have some appetizers and some entertainment. Really try to celebrate the community coming together to help some of our most vulnerable Canadians."
Cash donations can also be made online at https://www.weareunited.com/chatham-kent/period-promiseck/.
