Let's End Period Poverty: A call to action by Hold-my-Hands-Organization

Menstrual poverty is a critical issue that limits the potential of millions of girls and women worldwide. The inability to access sanitary products, proper facilities, and education about menstrual health forces many to miss school, face health risks, and endure societal stigma. At Hold My Hands Organization, we are committed to breaking this cycle through impactful initiatives.

We initiated a pad drive campaign for Furaha School in Mathare to address this pressing issue. This effort is part of our broader mission to ensure that no girl misses out on education or opportunities due to the lack of access to sanitary products. Alongside this, we are also running the Tunaweza Project, a program aimed at empowering young people with knowledge and encouraging them to wait before engaging in sexual activity. By fostering confidence and self-awareness, we aim to inspire a generation of responsible, empowered youth.

I am stepping beyond stigma.

I am breaking through myths.

I am overcoming period poverty.

I am embracing a life where menstruation is normalized and celebrated.

This is the vision we strive for at Hold My Hands Organization—a world where menstruation is embraced as a natural and essential part of life, free from shame and barriers. Girls should not have to feel awkward or ashamed when asking about the changes happening to their bodies. Menstruation is a natural part of life, and the conversation around it should be normalized. We look forward to a future where discussing menstruation is as common as any other health topic, where access to clean and safe spaces is abundant, and where menstrual products are affordable and easily available.

At Hold My Hands Organization, we are committed to doing our part—educating girls about menstruation, providing reusable pads, and continuing our efforts to end menstrual poverty. There is much more work to be done, but we are making strides every day.

Our pad drive campaign for Furaha School not only provides essential supplies but also educates young girls about menstrual health and hygiene. This dual approach addresses immediate needs while creating long-term change. Through the Tunaweza Project, we emphasize the importance of informed choices and delayed sexual activity. By engaging young people in open conversations and workshops, we aim to instill values of self-respect and responsibility. These efforts complement our fight against menstrual poverty by empowering youth to take charge oftheir lives and futures.

If we come together, we can rewrite the story. We can ensure that no girl has to face stress, shame, illness, or stigma because of her period. Menstruation should empower and uplift, not to hold anyone back.

Together, we can put an end to period poverty—one girl, one reusable pad, one step at a time.

Follow Hold My Hand Organization on our social media platforms for updates, inspiring stories, and ways to get involved:

Twitter : https://x.com/HoldmyHandsOrg

LinkedIn : linkedin.com/hold-my-hands-organisation

Blog : https://holdmyhandsorganization.blogspot.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@holdmyhansorganization

For more enquiries, or to learn more about our work:

Gmail: holdmyyhands@gmail.com

Email: mailto:info@hold-my-hands.org

Website:www.hold-my-hands.org

Together, we can continue this cycle of giving. Together, we can build a future where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to a peaceful world. Let’s hold hands and build a brighter future!

The writer Faith Mwende - is a Communication Specialist atHold-my-Hands-Organization-Trust