OVER 1600 sanitary pads were donated to Wentworth, Merebank and The Bluff high schools on June 10 by Dignified Diamonds as part of their outreach programme that aims to assist young girls to maintain dignity and hygiene.

Also read: Primary school welcomes sanitary pad donation

The initiative, led by Dignified Diamonds’ Elaine Pieterse and supported by community activist Neil Axford, brought relief to the learners in need.

Pieterse explained the organisation’s donations vary depending on demand and supply.

“We don’t only give sanitary pads, but hygiene packs as well, it depends on when and whether we receive them. The sanitary pads we receive depend on who we are donating it to and how much it is needed,” said Pieterse.

She added that the programme aims to ensure that no young girl misses school because she doesn’t have access to basic sanitary products.

Schools donated to:

• Fairvale Secondary.
• Umbilo Secondary.
• Wentworth High.
• Ganges Secondary.
• PR Pather Secondary.
• Merebank High School.
• Grosvenor Girls’ High School.

Axford said girls can now go to the principal’s office and request a sanitary pad. “What is even more touching is that the supplies are not exclusive to the learners. Any learners who have sisters or mother in need can request a pad to take home,” said Axford.

He added that he and Pieterse have worked together on several outreach programmes and plan to continue into the foreseeable future.

The initiative not only fills a pressing physical need but also acts to break the stigma of menstruation. Pieterse and Axford wish for the project to grow and reach more learners and families.

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