156,000 menstrual products go out through Greater Victoria agencies

Period product drive beats goals, doesn’t meet B.C. needs

156,000 menstrual products go out through Greater Victoria agencies Published 8:30 am Sunday, July 12, 2026 While the United Way BC’s 2026 Period Promise campaign surpassed its provincial collection goal, the demand for menstrual products continues to grow. More than 156,000 menstrual products are being distributed to organizations across the South Island after the 2026 campaign collected 570,150 items across the province. A major contribution to the initiative came through the annual Fill the Bus event, supported by BC Transit, the Victoria Labour Council and UNIFOR-333BC.

Local distribution of product is being led by United Way partner Soap for Hope Canada. “We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed to this year’s campaign,” said Lori Mayhew, senior director for United Way BC. “Together, we’ve helped ensure more people can access the menstrual products they need to attend school, go to work and participate fully in their communities.

At the same time, our needs assessment makes it clear that significant gaps remain.” Presented by Pacific Blue Cross in partnership with CUPE 1816, the campaign exceeded its goal of 525,000 products thanks to the support of donors, workplaces, unions, businesses, volunteers and community partners across the province. Always and Tampax donated 373,632 menstrual products valued at more than $330,000, while Pacific Blue Cross matched cash donations dollar-for-dollar up to $25,000.

While the campaign’s success reflects strong community support, the demand for menstrual products continues to grow. United Way BC’s latest needs assessment identified more than 120 organizations requesting menstrual products to support an estimated 162,758 people requiring nearly seven million menstrual products to meet current demand. Learn more or donate online at uwbc.ca/periodpromise.

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