No girl should miss school because of her period. That belief is at the centre of Pad Her, Make Her Smile, the annual flagship campaign of our Smile Drive pillar, and this term it was back in schools.
Our volunteers arrived with boxes of sanitary pads and hygiene kits, but the kits were only part of the visit. Before anything was handed out, we sat with the girls to talk openly about menstruation: what is normal, how to manage pain, how to stay clean and comfortable, and why there is nothing shameful about any of it.
"When you have what you need, you can concentrate on learning instead of worrying."
More than a donation
Dignity and confidence are closely linked. A girl who is worried about stains or smells is less likely to answer questions in class or take part in sport. By combining practical supplies with honest education, we aim to remove one of the quiet barriers that hold girls back.
The visit also included time for teachers. We shared simple ways schools can support girls during their periods, from keeping an emergency supply to making sure washrooms are safe and private.
How you can help
Every Smile Drive campaign depends on donations of money and supplies. A gift of any size helps us reach another school. Visit our donate page to give online, by Mobile Money or by bank transfer, or contact us to donate supplies directly.
