Dignity vending machine installed at Desert Blue Connect’s Geraldton women’s wellness centre

After opening in early March, the women’s wellness centre opened by Desert Blue Connect has announced the installation of a dignity vending machine.

The initiative aims to provide free and accessible menstrual products to vulnerable and low-income women in the community.

The organisation recognises the urgent need to address period poverty and ensure menstrual health is prioritised.

The project is a collaboration between Desert Blue Connect and Share the Dignity, an organisation dedicated to assisting women in need, to bring the dignity vending machine to the Women’s Wellness Centre.

The dignity vending machine is discreetly located within the Women’s Wellness Centre’s bathrooms, ensuring women can access the products comfortably and privately.

By providing free menstrual products, Desert Blue Connect aims to alleviate the financial burden faced by homeless and vulnerable women, enabling them to manage their menstrual health with confidence and dignity.

Sexual health nurse for Desert Blue Connect Lisa Boase said: “Access to menstrual products is not only a matter of hygiene but also one of dignity and equality.

“With the installation of the dignity vending machine, they aim to break down barriers and ensure that all women have access to essential menstrual products, regardless of their financial situation.”

This installation at the Women’s Wellness Centre marks the third dignity vending machine in Geraldton, with the other two machines located at Geraldton Central TAFE and Geraldton Regional Aboriginal Medical Service.