Pad drive to empower young women
'We heard that the girls were using their brothers' old T-shirts when the menstruate.'
What was supposed to be a one-off donation turned into an ongoing commitment when three local activists identified the desperate need for sanitary pads in informal areas.
Around two months ago, MFGA’s (Make Florida Great Again) Dora Rapai and Heidi Banks collected and distributed 20 packets of sanitary towels to the underprivileged girls and women living in Jerusalem informal settlement.
“We initially distributed the pads as part of a once-off project, but when we realised the actual need for them, we decided to make it an ongoing project. We will collect pads and distribute them every two or three months,” Dora explained.
“We heard that the girls were using their brothers’ old T-shirts when the menstruate, and I was so touched when a father asked me for a packet for his daughter. We knew that we had to do more to support these girls.”
According to Dora they will work with Evolving Butterfly’s Jillian Adams and visit Jerusalem again on August 9 to distribute pads. They also plan on speaking to the girls about Aids, STIs and the importance of finishing school. This not only is a wonderful way to celebrate Women’s Day, but it will also serve to inform the girls of the sisterhood that will assist them through tough times.
Dora hopes to see the project spread throughout South Africa, so that all girls can have access to sanitary products when they need them. If you want to be part of the movement, contact one of the passionate activists and they will come and collect the donation.
“We build a stronger community by sharing our love. We are in this together and if there is a need in your community for pads or you want to donate, please send us a message via WhatsApp on 084 823 7887 or contact 081 549 6933. Pads are R5 from Shoprite and R6 from Spar, and this will go a long way to assist someone in need. The support from the community so far is greatly appreciated.” Dora concluded.
