More than $3 million in free period products will be delivered to schools across Pennsylvania as part of a state initiative to support women's and girl's health.
The state Department of Health cited national studies indicating that one in four girls struggle to afford period products, and that 23 percent miss class entirely due to lack o access to essential menstrual hygiene products.
"Not having access to period products should never lead to a missed day of school," Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen said in a statement. "When a student is forced to stay home because she lacks basic health essentials, it
doesn't just derail one lesson, it creates a ripple effect that impacts her grades, graduation, and future."
The state hopes to make the free products available some 650,000 girls in Pennsylvania schools.
The funding is part of a provision in the 2026-2027 budget for all 750 Pennsylvania public school districts, career centers, and charter schools. Some larger school districts, like Scranton School District, will receive as much as $17,000 to fund the program.
Officials say eliminating the stress surrounding what is a major distraction for girls can pay dividends in the classroom.
"When students know they can access these products for free whenever they need them, it encourages them to not only attend school, but also focus fully on their education," Erin Keating, the Scranton School District Superintendent, said in a statement.
Funding is made to specific district proportionate to the total number of students enrolled. Districts will receive roughly $1.81 per student.
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