The Family Planning Association of Trinidad and Tobago (FPATT) and the non-governmental organisation Feminitt Caribbean have welcomed the government’s announcement of a $5 million women’s health fund aimed at addressing period poverty. The initiative, set to launch in January 2026, will focus on providing free menstrual kits in educational institutions and promoting menstrual health education to dismantle societal stigmas. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo revealed the fund during the October 13 budget presentation, highlighting its collaboration with the Ministry of the People, Social Development and Family Services and other stakeholders to ensure sustainability. FPATT Executive Director Jill De Bourg praised the initiative, emphasizing that access to affordable menstrual products is crucial for women and girls to participate fully in educational, social, and economic activities without barriers. The fund will also include educational programmes targeting men and boys to foster inclusivity. Feminitt Caribbean’s Safe Cycle Initiative, launched in 2020, has already made strides in menstrual health education and service delivery, including the establishment of the Safe Cycle Care Bank in 2021. Dr. TeHilla Paul, Feminitt’s Safe Cycle programme lead, called for further legislative measures, such as a Menstrual Equity Act and a ‘Period Card,’ to ensure access to free gynaecology services. The issue of period poverty was also addressed in a December 2023 joint select committee, which recommended comprehensive measures, including menstrual health education, product provision in schools, and cross-ministerial coordination.
Family Planning Association, Feminitt applaud period poverty initiative
