The charity plans to collect one million sanitary products to help local girls

A non-profit organization north of Pretoria wants to collect one million sanitary pads in the next year.

This is an effort to restore the dignity of schools in the area and uplift the lives of underprivileged children.

Founded in June 2012, Faith & Hope Foundation is dedicated to uplifting the lives of the needy and youth development through sustainable growth, environmental safety and socio-economic empowerment.

Operating in a RDP area plagued by extreme poverty, high unemployment, crime and other social problems, the foundation has been instrumental in addressing the lack of needs for children and adolescents.

Project manager Faith Sibeko said after witnessing the appalling conditions, children going to school without proper uniform, high teenage pregnancy rate and rising crime, the foundation initially launched its drive to return to school to provide uniforms, stationery and sanitary products.

Sibeko said the current focus is on a significant campaign to collect one million absorbent pads for 2024-2025.

“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,” Sibeko said.

Sibeko said donations can be made in several ways: individuals can buy pads, make monetary donations or send donations to the center.

“We don’t have a particular brand preference; any type of buffer will be greatly appreciated,” Sibeko pointed out.

Sibeko said that by ensuring girls have access to sanitary products, she expects school attendance to improve, along with academic performance and self-confidence.

“The foundation’s efforts are also aimed at preventing risky behaviors, such as working with older men for financial support to buy menstrual products.

Data from the six free schools involved, which collectively serve over 1,200 pupils, shows that 60% of these pupils are girls who need support.

“The foundation conducts annual needs assessments and home visits to address and understand the broader challenges facing these students.”

The foundation will hold an Arbor Day event next month, encouraging community members to bring at least one pack of tampons.

The success of the initiative will be measured through key performance indicators, such as the number of girls receiving tampons 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.”

Do you have more information about the story?

Please email us at [email protected] or call us at 083 625 4114.

For free and breaking news, visit the Rekord sites: Eastern record

For more news and interesting articles like Rekord on Facebookfollow us further Twitter or Instagram