BETHLEHEM, Pa. — Free menstrual products now are available at 68 state parks across Pennsylvania, including several near the Lehigh Valley.
“No one should have to cut an outdoor adventure short because of their period,” Cindy Adams Dunn, secretary of the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, said in a news release. “DCNR has you covered.”
“We are committed to creating inclusive, welcoming outdoor spaces — and that means meeting people’s basic needs without stigma or barriers.”
Adams Dunn, along with first lady Lori Shapiro and members of the Governor’s Advisory Commission on Next Generation Engagement, made the announcement Wednesday, also acknowledged as Menstrual Hygiene Day, at Kings Gap Environmental Education Center in Cumberland County.
State parks participating in the initiative near the Valley include: Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center in Bushkill Township, as well as two Carbon County state parks, Hickory Run State Park in White Haven and Beltzville State Park near Lehighton.
Products now are stocked in park offices, visitor centers and environmental educational centers at participating parks, with signage in both English and Spanish.
‘Enjoy the outdoors without barriers’
The effort is part of a broader initiative to make public spaces across the commonwealth more accessible and supportive for all, and, at the same time, highlight the importance of addressing period poverty through public policy and access, officials said.
“I want everyone to be able to enjoy their time outdoors, and DCNR’s work to get free menstrual products in the bathrooms and visitor offices of our state parks is critical to making our outdoor spaces welcoming to everyone.”Pennsylvania's first lady Lori Shapiro
“I’ve been so inspired by all the young women I’ve met who are making their voices heard and starting conversations on period poverty," Shaprio said.
"Talking so comfortably about something that, for so long, has been a taboo subject.
“Thanks to them speaking up, Pennsylvania has taken some major steps to ensure more women have access to basic hygiene supplies throughout the day.
"We know it is important to continue to lead by example in our commonwealth, and that’s why today’s announcement is so important to celebrate.
“I want everyone to be able to enjoy their time outdoors, and DCNR’s work to get free menstrual products in the bathrooms and visitor offices of our state parks is critical to making our outdoor spaces welcoming to everyone.”
A basic necessity
Officials outlined several reasons free menstrual products are needed at state parks. They argue they're a basic necessity, like toilet paper and hand soap, and they support outdoor access for all.
In addition, free products promote health and hygiene, and prevent unsafe alternatives. And since periods are often unpredictable, products should be available if needed.
"Having access to free menstrual products in state parks isn't just a win for equity — it’s a step toward ensuring everyone can fully enjoy the outdoors without barriers."Ruby Mundok, executive director of the Governor's Advisory Commission on Next Generation Engagement
"Having access to free menstrual products in state parks isn't just a win for equity — it’s a step toward ensuring everyone can fully enjoy the outdoors without barriers," Ruby Mundok, executive director of the Governor's Advisory Commission on Next Generation Engagement, said.
"We’ve heard from young people across Pennsylvania who missed out on outdoor experiences because they didn’t have access to menstrual products.
"This initiative gives visitors peace of mind so they can fully enjoy everything our parks have to offer.”
