A north of Pretoria non-profit organisation wants to collect one million sanitary pads in the coming year.
This is an effort to restore the dignity of school girls in the area and uplift the lives of underprivileged children.
Founded in June 2012, Faith & Hope Foundation has dedicated itself to uplifting the lives of the needy and developing youth through sustainable growth, environmental safety, and socio-economic empowerment.
Operating in an RDP area plagued by extreme poverty, high unemployment, crime and other social issues, the foundation has been instrumental in addressing the lack of necessities for children and teenagers.
Project manager Faith Sibeko said after witnessing the dire conditions, children attending school without proper uniform, high rate of teenage pregnancy, and rising crime, the foundation launched its initial Back-to-School drive to provide uniforms, stationery, and sanitary products.
Sibeko said the current focus is on a significant campaign aimed at collecting one million sanitary pads for the 2024-2025 period.
“Our goal is to restore the dignity of our girls and uplift the lives of underprivileged children in our community.
“The initiative is part of an ongoing effort that has spanned over a decade, involving monthly distributions to schools in collaboration with partners such as the Dockey Tladi Foundation and SAPS in Ga-Rankuwa,” said Sibeko.
Sibeko said donations can be made in several ways: individuals can buy pads, make monetary donation or drop off donations at the centre.
“We do not have a specific brand preference; any type of pad will be highly appreciated,” emphasised Sibeko.
Sibeko said by ensuring that girls have access to sanitary products, school attendance is expected to improve, along with academic performance and self-confidence.
“The foundation’s efforts also aim to prevent risky behaviours, such as engaging with older men for financial support to buy menstrual products.
Data from the six no-fee schools involved, which collectively serve over 1 200 learners, indicate that 60% of these students are girls in need of support.
“The foundation performs annual needs analyses and home visits to address and understand the broader challenges faced by these students.”
The foundation will hold an Arbor Day event next month, encouraging community members to bring at least one pack of pads.
The success of the initiative will be measured through key performance indicators such as the number of girls receiving pads and improved knowledge of menstrual hygiene practices.
“We are committed to ensuring that every girl in our community has access to sanitary products and the dignity they deserve.
“The support we are receiving is a testament to the strength and solidarity of our community.”
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