Chilliwack-Kent MLA Kelli Paddon showcased the hard work of an Agassiz resident in the B.C. legislature Tuesday.
In a virtual statement to the house of commons on Tuesday, March 2, Paddon shared the efforts of Meil Bernstein, who created Project AIM to help those in need gain access to incontinence and menstrual products.
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In January, Bernstein put out a call to residents asking for help in purchasing pads, tampons and other items to donate to organizations like the Agassiz-Harrison Community Services and Extra FARE, as well as gender counselling groups and local women’s shelters.
“This is not a glamorous topic, but we know that period poverty is real,” Paddon said in her speech.
“As we approach International Women’s Day, this work is especially topical, as we recognize the financial repercussions of gender in our society as well as the reality that a lack of access to these hygiene items can result in serious health issues, increased stigma and limitations to social and economic participation.”
Paddon also mentioned the work of Mohamed Hasanine, owner of Agassiz Remedy’s Rx Pharmacy, who has supported Bernstein’s project by accepting donations and selling products for Project AIM at cost.
She said that Bernstein, Hasanine and other community members working with deserve to be thanked “for the work they’re doing in recognition of this need, for shining a light on this access issue and for the generosity they offer our community.”
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