Operation Compassion, an outreach project of the Fellowship Full Gospel Church in Ferndale, has donated sanitary pads to learners at Ferndale High School.

The sanitary pad drive, led by Chrissy Chaplin, aims to address period poverty by ensuring that young girls have access to essential menstrual hygiene products, helping them stay in school and participate in their education without the added burden of worrying about their next sanitary pad.

“I was inspired to start this initiative because I believe that no girl should have to miss school or feel ashamed because she cannot afford sanitary pads,” said Chaplin. “Menstrual health is an important part of a girl’s dignity, confidence and well-being, and I wanted to make a difference in my community by helping girls who face period poverty.”

Ferndale High School was selected as part of the project’s commitment to supporting learners within the local community, with plans to eventually extend the outreach to other areas.

Read more: 100 young girls receive sanitary towels

“When girls cannot afford sanitary pads, they may miss school, struggle to concentrate in class, or feel embarrassed and anxious about managing their periods. Missing lessons can affect their academic progress, while the stigma surrounding menstruation can impact their confidence,” Chaplin explained.

“I hope that this donation will bring relief, restore confidence and remind every girl that she matters and that she’s not alone in this world. I want the girls to know that their circumstances do not define their future.”

The initiative received valuable support from Liberty Compassion and members of the Fellowship Full Gospel Church, whose contributions helped turn Chaplin’s vision into reality.

Chaplin expressed gratitude to everyone who supported the drive, emphasising that collective efforts from individuals, businesses and community organisations are essential in addressing challenges such as period poverty.

“The donations were essential to making this initiative possible. As an individual working to make a difference, I could not do everything alone. The generosity of our sponsors and supporters has helped us provide sanitary products to the learners,” she said.

Although the donation to Ferndale High School marks an important milestone, Chaplin said the journey has only begun. Her vision is to reach more schools and underserved communities while promoting menstrual hygiene awareness.

Also read: Sanitary pads for Cosmo City women

She is encouraging businesses, churches, organisations and individuals to contribute by donating sanitary pads, offering financial assistance or volunteering their time.

“You do not need to be a large company or have a huge budget to make a difference. You can donate sanitary pads, contribute towards purchasing supplies, help with transportation or partner with a school or community organisation. The most important thing is to take the first step,” she said.

Through the pad drive, Chaplin hopes to build a sustainable initiative that goes beyond once-off donations.

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