Period Party breaks the taboo

Community collects $6,000 in menstrual products while celebrating menstrual health with film, crafts and conversation

A grassroots initiative aimed at ending period poverty in Prince Edward County marked its seventh annual celebration this week with a community event that proved conversations about menstrual health can be open, inclusive and even fun.

The Seventh Annual PEC Period Party wrapped up a week-long menstrual product drive that collected more than $6,000 worth of supplies for local organizations. More than 140 people of all ages and genders gathered at the Regent Theatre for a free family friendly celebration centred around a screening of the coming-of-age film Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret, based on the classic novel by Judy Blume.

In addition to the film, attendees took part in a variety of activities designed to normalize conversations about menstruation and menstrual health. A period kit–making station, craft table, mocktail bar, henna art, and a retro-style photobooth helped create a festival atmosphere.

Ramona Roblin, Alison Kelly, Shannon Helm and Nell Casson pose for a retro-style photo in the photo booth. PHOTO: BECKY HINCH PHOTOGRAPHY

The event also included treats for guests, with more than 100 mini cakes donated by local bakery Half Kanga.

“This was fabulous,” said one attendee. “What a great way to teach young people about a natural part of growing. Also, thank you Judy Blume for being there for us. I still have my dog-eared copy from the ’70s.”

Organizers say the continued success of the initiative shows the community’s willingness to confront period stigma.

“The continued success of this project shows just how ready our community is to have open and honest conversations about menstrual health,” said PEC Period Project founder Alison Kelly. “I hope that in the future, local politicians will respond to our invitation and show up in these spaces. Leadership means being willing to listen, learn, and treat menstrual health with the seriousness and dignity it deserves.”

More than $1,000 in additional cash donations raised during the drive will be used to purchase period underwear for local agencies.

Collected products will be distributed to organizations including youth services, food banks, schools and community programs across Prince Edward County and Belleville.

The event was made possible through support from the Picton BIA, County Community Action Projects and Becky Hinch Photography.

Founded in 2018, PEC Period Party has grown into a significant local advocacy effort focused on menstrual equity. Since its inception, the initiative has collected nearly $30,000 worth of menstrual products and raised more than $6,000 in cash to fund additional supplies and educational resources.