Czech city becomes first in country to offer students free period supplies

A pilot program in Ostrava aimed at combating menstrual poverty has shown remarkable success, leading to a decision to extend the initiative to all 55 elementary schools in the city starting January 2025. Initially launched in the spring at 37 schools, the program provides free menstrual pads to female students, with specially designed wooden dispensers placed in school restrooms.

"After evaluating the project, we found significant interest from schools, and it has proven successful," said Zbyněk Pražák, Ostrava’s Deputy Mayor for Education, told Czech media outlet Novinky.cz.

"Principals report that it has helped increase attendance and reduce absences among girls, creating a safer school environment where they can address their menstrual needs discreetly."

The initiative has also alleviated the burden on teachers who previously provided menstrual products from their personal supplies. “Menstruation is a normal physiological phenomenon, just like breathing,” Pražák emphasized, highlighting the importance of normalizing discussions around menstruation in schools.

School principals have praised the project for its positive impact. Kamil Tabášek, principal of Pěší Elementary School, noted that students' initial shyness when requesting pads has decreased as they become more comfortable with the program.

“I've observed a change in behavior; the girls are calmer and more at ease," he stated. Many stayed home during their periods due to fear of accidents at school. This project has helped them feel secure.”

Parents also express support for the program, with Radka Palátová, principal of V. Košaře Primary and Kindergarten, noting that it reduces financial strain, particularly for single parents.

“The financial burden is noticeable for families with multiple daughters. We are pleased to offer free pads and don’t anticipate system abuse,” she said.

The city invested CZK 500,000 in the project for 2024, purchasing approximately 82,000 menstrual pads. Plans are in place to allocate an additional million crowns for next year. Inspired by similar initiatives abroad, including in Ireland and Scotland, Ostrava aims to set a precedent as the first Czech city to tackle menstrual poverty in schools systematically. “I hope other cities and schools will take note of this initiative,” Pražák said.