PITTSBURGH, PA — Pennsylvania has invested $6 million over two years to provide free period products in schools, with officials proposing an additional $3 million to expand the program in the upcoming state budget.
What This Means for You
- Students in hundreds of schools now have free access to period products
- The program aims to reduce missed class time linked to lack of hygiene supplies
- Additional funding is proposed to continue and expand the initiative
State health officials highlighted the program Monday during a visit to Sterrett Classical Academy in Pittsburgh, pointing to its role in helping students stay in school and focus on learning.
Why the Program Was Created
The initiative was launched to address “period poverty,” a term used to describe the inability to afford basic menstrual hygiene products.
Studies cited by the state show that one in four students struggles to afford period products, and 23% have missed class because they lacked access to them.
Officials said the funding is intended to reduce those barriers and improve student attendance and academic outcomes.
How the Funding Is Being Used
The program distributes funding to more than 750 school entities, including public school districts, intermediate units, career and technical centers, and charter schools.
Schools receive funding based on enrollment, at a rate of $1.79 per student, and can choose how to provide access to products, including through school-based supply programs.
“Free period products in schools help ensure that Pennsylvania’s more than 650,000 girls have peace of mind — so they can focus on their education,” said Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen.
Impact on Students and Schools
School officials said access to hygiene products can directly affect whether students attend class.
“At our school, the Care Closet is about more than supplies. It is about dignity, access, and removing barriers so students can show up ready to learn,” said Sterrett Classical Academy Principal Dr. Michele Holly.
Students also described the program as helping normalize conversations around menstrual health and reducing stigma.
Next Steps
The Shapiro Administration has proposed an additional $3 million in the 2026-27 budget to continue the program.
The proposal will be considered as part of the state’s broader budget process in the General Assembly.
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