Lidl Ireland have announced that they will provide free sanitary products to customers, as part of a new programme tackling period poverty.
Announcing the move on Twitter this morning, the retailer will provide shoppers with a free box of sanitary pads or tampons every month via a coupon in the Lidl mobile app.
The company will also donate products to the Simon Community, for those who may not have access to a smartphone.
The company said: “We’re proud to announce that we are the first major retailer in the world to offer free period products in stores nationwide to combat period poverty in partnership with Homeless Period Ireland.”
“A Plan International study on young females in Ireland found that almost 50 per cent of girls aged between 12 and 19 found it difficult to pay for sanitary products.”
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“Our new initiative means those in need will be able to claim a dedicated coupon for a free box of sanitary pads or tampons per customer each month through the Lidl Plus app.”
Starting from today, April 19, customers looking for access to these products can download the Lidl Plus app, and sign up to receive a free monthly coupon which they will receive on May 3rd, and then ongoing on a monthly basis.
The founder of Homeless Period Ireland welcomed the move, telling Q102:
“This is a really significant development to combat period poverty in Ireland and to ensure those most in need will have the ability to access suitable period products.”
“Since the pandemic struck we have an issue with poverty, and we have to be mindful that people have lost jobs, it can be quite a hidden issue,” she added.
The company is also a long-time sponsor of Ladies Gaelic Football Association and say they are also working with the LGFA to provide free female hygiene products in its clubs across the country.
The initiative received a great reception online.
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“This is fantastic, and you deserve praise for this initiative. Well done to all involved in making it happen,” replied one tweeter.
“Absolutely amazing. I hope the rest follow suit. fab work!”
“I’m voting for Lidl in the next General Election,” said another