Our pledge to always support the girl child and women in our society is one we do not take lightly. We remain committed to educating them on healthy living and providing support in every way we can. On September 17, 2024, we organised an empowerment session for young girls and women through a Menstrual Hygiene and Clothing Distribution Outreach in Ibadan West, Oyo State. From 10 am to 3 pm, the outreach was aimed to provide not only essential sanitary products but also valuable education on menstruation and hygiene management to a community eager for support and information.
The goal was clear to everyone involved which was to ensure that no girl or woman felt unsupported during their menstrual cycle and to give them the confidence and resources they needed to manage their periods with dignity. In addition to distributing sanitary pads, the outreach focused on answering questions about menstrual health and proper hygiene practices, and clothing items were provided to enhance their overall well-being.
The event kicked off at 10 am after volunteers and the program manager set up the outreach site. With tables laden with sanitary pads and racks filled with clothing, the venue quickly attracted girls, young women, and even older women from the community all expressing a sense of anticipation and excitement, eager to participate in a day dedicated to their needs.
We welcomed the group by introducing the foundation’s mission and objectives. The community was made aware of our ongoing commitment to supporting women and young girls, particularly in areas related to menstrual health, hygiene, and overall well-being.
A key highlight of the event was the presence of a volunteer medical professional who engaged directly with the girls and women, offering expert advice on menstrual health. She answered numerous questions, ranging from the basics of menstrual hygiene to more specific concerns about health issues related to menstruation. For younger girls who were just beginning to experience menstruation, this was a vital moment of education. They were shown how to properly use and dispose of sanitary pads, and a few were allowed to demonstrate what they had learned. Those who participated actively were rewarded with gifts.
Following the informative and interactive session on menstruation, it was time for the clothing distribution. Girls, young women, and even some boys were invited to select from a wide variety of clothing items displayed on hangers and tables and everyone had the chance to pick what they needed.
As the event came to a close at 3 pm, we felt a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment knowing that our goal was achieved. The volunteers had not only distributed sanitary pads and clothing but also shared knowledge that would continue to benefit the community long after the day’s activities were done. A brief meeting with the community leader wrapped up the day, providing us with valuable feedback and strengthening ties with the community.
By 3:30 pm, volunteers had dispersed, satisfied that their efforts had made a significant impact. This outreach is another key milestone in our ongoing mission to educate and improve the health of women and girls across Nigeria, and the smiles on the faces of the beneficiaries were proof that the impact was both profound and lasting.
