Citron Hygiene has launched the Canadian arm of the Aunt Flow menstrual product donation program and signed an agreement with the Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC) to disseminate an initial donation of over 5,000 pads and tampons to Indigenous communities, with more to come in future.

The Aunt Flow business model ensures that pad and tampon sales translate into social impact, so for every 10 products sold, one is donated to menstruators in need. Under the Canadian donation program managed by Citron Hygiene, all pads and tampons sold in Canada will fuel donations for communities on Canadian soil. The first donation occurred in Prince Edward Island on August 8 and was given to Lennox Island First Nation of the Mi’kmaq people.

A survey by Citron Hygiene showed that 26% of women have been struggling to afford period products in 2023 due to inflation and interest rate increases. In many Indigenous communities, particularly remote ones, period poverty is likely a far more severe problem than reflected in North America-wide research.

“Citron Hygiene sought out the NWAC because of its strong networks in underserved communities and its history of advocating for the health and well-being of its members,” says Robert Guice, CEO of Citron Hygiene. “Far too many menstruators are experiencing the negative impacts of period poverty. Now, thanks to our current and future customers that have implemented Aunt Flow free-vend programs, we have a pipeline of free products to offer to these communities and can remove an obstacle that indigenous women and girls often face when pursuing opportunities.”

“Citron Hygiene’s donation of menstrual hygiene products echoes our mission of uplifting and empowering Indigenous women, girls, Two-Spirit, transgender and gender-diverse individuals nationwide,” Lynne Groulx, CEO of NWAC says. “Menstrual products are not a luxury but a fundamental necessity, enabling full participation in education, work, and community life. We commend Citron Hygiene’s efforts in advancing menstrual equity, especially its commitment to reaching and delivering these essential products to remote areas. In these communities, where economic challenges and housing insecurity can intensify the struggle to prioritize menstrual hygiene alongside basic needs like food, their support is truly invaluable. Through this partnership, we break down barriers of finance, education, and social stigma, empowering menstruators to manage their periods with dignity.”

Claire Coder, the founder and CEO of Aunt Flow, remarks, “No one should have to worry about missing school or work because they can’t afford to purchase period supplies. We’re proud to work alongside Citron Hygiene in support of the Native Women’s Association of Canada to ensure that menstruators are provided with high-quality, organic cotton period products whenever they need them.”