Press Release: USC Secures Continued Funding for Free the Dot Program
Through advocacy efforts, Western University commits to two more years of funding
For Immediate Release
LONDON, Ontario, March 6, 2026 – The University Students’ Council (USC) is thrilled to announce a two-year funding extension from Western University for the Free the Dot program, which provides free menstrual products to students across campus.
The renewed funding reflects a shared commitment to student wellness and equity, recognizing menstrual products as a basic necessity rather than a luxury. With this support, Free the Dot will continue to operate and evolve to meet the needs of Western’s diverse student population.
“We’re very pleased that Western continues to see the value of Free the Dot and for their ongoing commitment to student well-being,” said Kathleena Henricus, President of the University Students’ Council. “This funding sends a powerful message to students that their needs matter and that access to essential wellness supports is a priority on our campus.”
While putting together the funding extension proposal, the USC conducted a program review to ensure Free the Dot remains sustainable. After examining usage patterns and program capacity, changes were made to prioritize student-facing washrooms.
“This allows us to direct resources to spaces where students need it and where impact is highest. We want to see Free the Dot continue past the two-year extension and in order to do so, we needed to ensure it was cost effective.” said Jenna Ijam, Vice President University Affairs, University Students’ Council.
Since its launch in 2021, Free the Dot has become a well-established service at Western, ensuring that students have access to essential menstrual products in washrooms throughout campus, helping reduce financial barriers and supporting student well-being.
For more information about Free the Dot, visit westernusc.ca/free-the-dot.
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The University Students’ Council (USC) is a student-led organization that first and foremost exists to advocate and represent undergraduate students at Western University. Since 1965, we have grown beyond an advocacy organization, becoming one of the largest student governments in Canada and one of the largest not-for-profits in London, Ontario. Each day, we work to support, improve and enhance the student experience on our campus, because we believe that students have the power to change the world.
For more information and interview opportunities, please contact:
Rebecca Rebeiro
Senior Manager, Communications
rebecca.rebeiro@westernusc.ca
226.577.5065
