Iris + Arlo marks Menstrual Hygiene Day with product donation campaign for Le Chaînon
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Quebec menstrual care brand Iris + Arlo concluded a two-week campaign on May 28, World Menstrual Hygiene Day, aimed at supporting people affected by period poverty.
According to a press release issued May 28, the campaign was carried out in partnership with Le Chaînon, a Montreal organization supporting women experiencing vulnerability or homelessness.
From May 14 to 28, for every Iris + Arlo menstrual product purchased at Jean Coutu stores, the company committed to donating the equivalent product to Le Chaînon.
Raising awareness about period poverty
Period poverty refers to situations where a person must choose between buying menstrual products and paying for other basic needs such as food, housing or essential household items.
According to data cited in the press release, one in six menstruating people in Canada has experienced some form of period poverty. The same release also cited research indicating that more than half of women and girls aged 14 to 55 have missed activities at times due to their periods or concerns related to inadequate access to menstrual products or facilities.
Lara Emond, founder of Iris + Arlo, said the campaign was designed both to provide direct support and to open a broader conversation about an issue that remains overlooked.
Support for more than 100 organizations
Iris + Arlo stated that the campaign is part of its broader business model, which dedicates a portion of sales to fighting period poverty.
According to the company, more than 100 organizations across Canada have received product donations through its initiatives.
Barbara Deveaux-Savard, team lead at Le Chaînon’s Annex, said in the release that menstrual products remain essential items, yet are still inaccessible for many people.
Le Chaînon supports women in vulnerable situations
Founded in 1932, Le Chaînon is one of Quebec’s major resources for women in vulnerable situations or experiencing homelessness.
According to the organization, it supports more than 2,350 women each year through emergency and transitional housing, residential services and psychosocial support.
The awareness campaign was also supported by public figures including Geneviève Pettersen, Marilou Éthier, Catherine Lafrance-Raymond and Lolitta Dandoy, who helped share the message of menstrual equity with their audiences.
