LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Boxes popping up on corners around downtown Louisville’s Lumed District are promoting women’s health.
Anyone can open the Feminine Hygiene Community Box and receive what they need. The goal is to help people who cannot afford these products.
Similar to the small free libraries and pantries you see around town, this box provides women’s products to those in need.
On Monday, two boxes were unveiled by UW Medicine students, one at the corner of South Preston Street and East Muhammad Ali Boulevard and the other on East Chestnut Street on the UW Medicine campus. and South Floyd Street.
A survey of low-income women in large U.S. cities found that nearly two-thirds could not afford sanitary products last year, Reuters reported.
Instead, women often used paper towels and toilet paper from public restrooms. The National Organization for Women said it can often lead to infections.
UofL medical students said the Community Women’s Hygiene Project addresses a critical need for access in underserved communities, including those who are low-income and experiencing homelessness.
“To show that we are here for the community and to make sure everyone knows how to take care of themselves, we are committed to (improving) everyone’s health. We want to convey our excitement with these products,” said Leshire Davis-Johnson, a medical student at the university. “Women’s health is important, but so is overall health.”
The box also contains inspirational cards to uplift people.
The medical students hope others will adopt their idea in the city. Boxes can be sponsored in different regions. For inquiries, please email us at ulsom.snma@gmail.com.
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