Aalsmeer makes free menstrual products permanent in libraries and schools
Aalsmeer will continue providing free menstrual products in libraries and schools after a successful trial. This move aims to combat period poverty, helping girls and women who struggle to afford essential hygiene items. Over 200 packages have already been distributed since 2025.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Municipality | Aalsmeer |
| Trial Start Date | Early 2025 |
| Permanent Extension | March 2026 |
| Distribution Points | Bibliotheek Amstelland, schools, Voedselbank, Oosterkerk, Yuverta MBO |
| Packages Distributed | ~200 since trial start |
| Annual Cost | €1,000 (covered by minimum budget) |
| Impacted Group | 1 in 10 girls/women in poverty in the Netherlands (Armoedefonds data) |
| Alderman Statement | Sybrand de Vries: "Every resident we can help in this way counts for us." |
The municipality of Aalsmeer plays a key role in local welfare initiatives, including combating period poverty. By funding and coordinating the distribution of free menstrual products, the municipality ensures accessibility for vulnerable groups while addressing social inequality.
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Read the full translated article below
Free menstrual products to remain available in libraries and schools
A trial by the municipality to provide free menstrual products through Bibliotheek Amstelland and schools will be permanently extended. The municipality launched the trial in early 2025 as a supplement to measures aimed at combating period poverty. According to figures from the Armoedefonds (Poverty Fund), 1 in 10 girls and women living in poverty in the Netherlands cannot afford menstrual products at home.
The Armoedefonds has three distribution points for menstrual products in Aalsmeer: the Voedselbank (Food Bank), the Oosterkerk (Eastern Church), and Yuverta MBO. To expand the offering, the municipality also provides menstrual products through Bibliotheek Amstelland. Other secondary and primary schools can also participate in the initiative. The products are made available in a cabinet in a semi-managed location to ensure privacy and prevent misuse.
Products well-received
An evaluation of the trial showed no signs of misuse, leading the municipality to conclude that the products are reaching those in need. Participating primary schools have largely responded positively to the availability of the products and wish to continue. Most schools indicate that a real need is being met. “It’s great that Bibliotheek Amstelland also recognizes this need and supports the permanent provision of these products,” says Alderman Sybrand de Vries. “Every resident we can help in this way counts for us.” Since the start of the pilot, around 200 packages have been distributed. The annual cost of approximately €1,000 is covered by the regular minimum budget.
The cabinet in the women’s restroom of the library on Marktstraat.
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