The Church of Sweden will start helping female pupils who cannot afford menstrual products. Vicar Ilona Degermark sees it as a diaconal task.
The Church of Sweden in Borensberg has noticed that the economic decline leads to more poverty among students. Some young girls stay home from school during their period because they cannot afford menstrual protection, Dagen writes. Ilona Degermark, the vicar of the Church in Borensberg, keeps herself informed via TikTok and Snapchat and has noticed this is a widespread problem.
Therefore, she initiated a plan to provide Hällaskolan, a junior high school in town, with menstrual products that they can give to girls for free, Corren writes. Starting next autumn, the Church will start the action as part of its diaconal program.
Diaconate needs care, especially in times of rising prices
Embarrassing
Pastor Degermark says to have spoken to the school nurse. The latter told her that girls find it embarrassing to ask for menstrual products at school. Therefore, many stay at home to avoid awkward situations, the nurse told her.
In reaction, Degermark decided to come into action. “We have a diaconal task to be part of society when we see that members and children are unwell. We can support with food, medicines and nappies”, she says to Corren, adding that she sees no reason why young people should be excluded from “these social efforts.”
The school is also happy with the offer of the Church. Rector Andreas Palmqvist says that he is looking forward to the collaboration.
