Plaskett Leads New Initiative to Combat Period Poverty in Virgin Islands Schools

As reproductive rights face significant challenges nationwide, Delegate Stacey Plaskett is taking action to address period poverty in the Virgin Islands. In partnership with Golub Capital, Plaskett has secured over $48,000 in donations to provide sanitary products and educational resources for middle and high school students across the territory, with checks presented this week.

Period poverty, defined as the lack of access to menstrual products, hygiene facilities, and education, is a widespread issue affecting millions of women and girls globally. In the United States alone, one in five girls has missed school due to lack of access to menstrual products, according to a study by Always brand. This gap not only impacts their education but also contributes to a cycle of inequality.

In a release this week, Plaskett emphasized the initiative’s dual focus on providing essential products and enhancing educational awareness. “Truancy among girls often stems from their inability to access menstrual products,” Plaskett stated. “This initiative not only provides the essentials but also includes an educational component to raise awareness about menstrual health, empowering young women to understand and manage their cycles with confidence.”

Nellie Varlack, an advisor within Plaskett’s office, added in an interview with the Source the importance of feedback from local school nurses and non-profit organizations. “We heard from several nurses that girls were missing school because they couldn’t afford these products or didn’t have them readily available,” Varlack explained. “This initiative ensures that students not only have the necessary products but also access to educational resources that help demystify menstruation and promote health and well-being.”