Last week, the Budget and Appropriations Committee met to discuss the code revision for the Gators Matter, Period initiative, and did not vote in favor of the code revision to allow student organizations to purchase menstrual hygiene products for distribution using the Activity and Service Fees. However, the decision made by the Budget and Appropriations Committee does not reflect Student Government’s stance on the Gators Matter, Period. initiative. Rather, Student Government stands firm in their support for the Gators Matter, Period. initiative, and is currently working to fund this project through Facilities Services and GatorWell.
Members from both parties, along with Student Body President Smith Meyers, Women’s Student Association President Rebecca Kravitz, and Gators Matter, Period. Coalition Leader Chase Werther, are working together to make this student idea a reality across campus. We are excited to expand access to menstrual hygiene products on campus. As we work towards this goal, menstrual hygiene products will be available in the Reitz Union, Newell Hall, and other locations across campus by April 2018.
Until this project is complete, students can access free menstrual hygiene products as needed through the Field and Fork Pantry, which is supported by Student Government. The Field and Fork Pantry is located east of McCarty Hall B and is available to all students with a Gator One ID.
Branden Pearson(Inspire, Lakeside) is a Student Government Senator and Emily Dunson(Impact, District A) is the Budget and Appropriations Committee Chairwoman.
