Community & Business
15 June, 2022
High school takes steps to give girls dignity
GIRLS at a local high school can now say goodbye to the discomfort of not having period products and hello to a new dignity vending machines, which dispenses products for anyone who may need it.
As the price of sanitary products continues to rise, Mareeba State High School put its hand up to install a Share the Dignity vending machine in the girl’s E block toilets and it is already proving to be a hit.
Deputy Principal and Share the Dignity Days for Girls co-ordinator Lesa Moro said within a few days, the vending machine had to be restocked many times.
“The cost of sanitary items is quite expensive at the moment, and it can be challenging for families to access them so that’s why we have installed the machine,” she said.
“Each pack has two pads and six tampons, and we have encouraged the girls that if they don’t use pads or use tampons to give them to other girls who use them, so they have some handy.
“The girls know not to waste, and this machine will not only benefit our students but their mums and sisters who may need products as well.”
The machine is wirelessly installed on the wall of the bathroom and operates as a regular vending machine, with users pressing the button and being dispensed a pack of pads and tampons.
Other schools across Queensland will soon ne able to access free period products, with the State Government announcing a $13.3 million investment in the upcoming State Budget to install a Dignity Vending Machine in every school.
As well as a vending machine, schools will also have access to free period talks which will educate girls on hygiene when it comes to periods and how to cope with the stigma.
