Paradise rinks now better able to accommodate the other kind of periods

The Town of Paradise officially launched the addition of free feminine hygiene products in washrooms at the Paradise Double Ice Complex on Tuesday as it joins the Period Priority Project.

Created and organized by Leisha Toory, the Period Priority Project aims to make feminine hygiene products readily available in public places to those who need it the most and to support raising awareness about the accessibility and affordability of menstrual products across the country. Deputy Mayor Kimberley Street and Councillor Elizabeth Laurie met with Toory in a washroom at the Complex to mark the launch of the policy in Town facilities. 

“The Town is in full support of any program that targets the basic needs of our residents and helps people feel safe and included,” said Mayor Dan Bobbett. “We are proud to launch the Period Priority Project at the Paradise Double Ice Complex and are exploring ways to have it in other Town facilities.”

Paradise is one of the first municipalities in the province to support the project and is now a contributor to the over 17,800 menstrual products distributed across Canada since the campaign was launched in 2022.

The campaign also strives to minimize the sometimes uncomfortable conversation associated with menstruation by shifting the discussion to a more open and healthy dialogue, according to the Town.

Toory said she hopes to expand her reach by attracting more volunteers to facilitate research, fundraising and other tasks.

“People need period products. People should have access, affordability, and safety of period products,” said Toory.