NEW CITY, N.Y. — The Rockland County Department of Health and the Rockland County Menstrual Equity Workgroup are recognizing Menstrual Health Awareness Month in May with a series of educational and community outreach efforts focused on reducing stigma and improving access to menstrual products and resources.
Health officials are also observing Period Poverty Awareness Week from May 11-17 and Menstrual Hygiene Day on May 28, both of which aim to draw attention to barriers many people face in accessing menstrual hygiene products, education and sanitation facilities.
According to the workgroup, period poverty refers to a lack of access to sanitary products, menstrual health education or basic hygiene facilities due to financial hardship or social stigma. Advocates say the issue can negatively affect attendance at school, work and daily activities.
The international Menstrual Hygiene Day campaign promotes the goal of creating a “Period Friendly World,” encouraging communities to improve access to safe and affordable menstrual products and expand support services for people who menstruate.
The Rockland County Menstrual Equity Workgroup was launched in May 2025 through a partnership between the Department of Health and the Suffern Rotary Club Period Product Initiative. Officials said the workgroup includes local community organizations that meet regularly to share resources, provide education and discuss strategies to address menstrual equity in Rockland County.
“Menstrual health is an important part of overall health,” said Dr. Mary Leahy in a statement. “No one should miss school, work, or daily activities because they don’t have the products or information they need. When we improve access, we support the health of our whole community.”
As part of the awareness campaign, the workgroup is scheduled to present information on menstrual equity and period poverty during the Rockland County Legislature Special Committee on Health and Wellness meeting on May 27 at 5:30 p.m. The meeting will take place in the Legislative Chambers at 11 New Hempstead Road in New City and is open to the public.
Organizers are encouraging residents to wear red in support of menstrual health awareness at the meeting and on Menstrual Hygiene Day on May 28.
More information about the initiative and the county’s menstrual equity efforts is available through the Rockland County Department of Health Menstrual Equity webpage.