Montco To Add Menstrual Product Dispensers To All County Facilities

NORRISTOWN, PA — Montgomery County announced this week they will provide dispensers for free menstrual products in every county-owned facility, as part of a broader effort at equality and to limit period poverty.

The dispensers will be accessible at courthouses, health and human services buildings, historic sites, and county parks. There will be no charge for use.

"For those who have to make tough decisions about paying bills, buying food, or looking after their health, period products often end up at the bottom of the list, even though they are essential items," Montgomery County Commissioner Jamila Winder said in a statement. "Stocking bathrooms in county buildings helps alleviate period poverty and ensures that our most vulnerable residents, including those with limited incomes and unstable housing, feel cared for."

Period products cannot be purchased using SNAP or WIC under current Pennsylvania law. Multiple proposed House Bills — 850 and 851 — would allow these programs to be used to purchase such hygiene products, as well as making them available for free in public schools.

Montgomery County State Sens. Maria Collett and Amanda Cappelletti also introduced Senate Bill 906, which would require free period products to be made available by state agencies serving low income or homeless individuals.

"Everyone should have access to the menstrual products they need to live healthy, productive lives, but we know that’s not the reality for far too many of our neighbors," Collett added. “As a nurse – and as a lawmaker who has prioritized menstrual equity since taking office – I’m so thrilled to see my home county leading the way here."

The county says they've already been providing menstrual products for free in some county buildings, but this new initiative will require that all county-owned properties are continuously stocked.