Helping their girls
The call for feminine products and underwear to help those who can barely afford them, has resulted in mountains of supplies.
Women from organisations distributing these products to women and girls who survive on a shoestring, gathered at Oranga Tamariki last Friday to divide the items.
Donated goods include pads, tampons, underwear, waterproof bags for used pads, as well as reusable pads and sanitary towels. They will be available at Muāupoko Tribal Authority, Supergrans, Jack Allen Community Hub, Life to the Max, Youth Space and local schools, who also accept donations.
“The idea is that these products are in a place where girls have easy access to them, without them feeling embarrassed. There is nothing dignified about periods,” said organiser Therase Apatu, who set up Bare Essentials.
“If you only have $50 a week for food, even two or three dollars for feminine items is a lot of money. This will help combat period poverty in our area.”