(Staff and Pupils with their dignity package on display)
Today, we at Shalom Rescue Foundation are honoured to join the global community in celebrating World Menstrual Hygiene Day. This year’s theme, “Together for a Period Friendly World,” resonates deeply with our mission to break the silence, lift the stigma, and create an inclusive environment where every woman and girl can manage her menstruation with dignity and pride. Our journey over the past few weeks has been one of immense impact and heartfelt interactions.
(At the National School for the Deaf – Wilkinson Road, Freetown)
Our visit to the Milton Margai School for the Hearing Impaired on the 27th of May was another step in this direction. With the help of a sign language interpreter, we conducted sessions on maintaining good menstrual hygiene and overcoming related challenges. Distributing Dignity Packages to pupils was a moment of joy and fulfilment, knowing we were making a tangible difference in their lives.
(Teachers at the National School for the Deaf serve as Interpreters in an interactive session.)
Health Symposium at YACAN
Today, on World Menstrual Hygiene Day, we culminated our campaign with a symposium at the YACAN Hall. The event brought together students from various secondary schools and women with disabilities. It was a space of learning, sharing, and empowerment, ending with the distribution of Dignity Packages containing essential hygiene items.
(Pupils from different Schools at the Symposium)
During the symposium, Mrs. Remielekun Yarjah (the PAD Coordinator at SRF), delivered an inspiring and insightful address together with her team on the importance of maintaining good hygiene during menstruation. She emphasized that menstruation is a natural and healthy part of life, and it is crucial to break the taboos and stigma associated with it. She also provided practical advice on how women and girls can manage their periods hygienically and with dignity.
(Mrs. Yarjah distributing the dignity package)
Mrs. Yarjah discussed the necessity of using clean and safe menstrual products, such as sanitary & Reusable pads, and the importance of changing these products regularly to prevent infections. She highlighted the significance of regular handwashing before and after handling menstrual products to maintain overall hygiene. Additionally, she addressed the specific needs of women and girls with disabilities, advocating for accessible and inclusive menstrual products and facilities. Such address was a powerful reminder that good menstrual hygiene is a fundamental right and an essential component of health and well-being for all women and girls.
(Female staff championing the Menstrual Hygiene Campaign)
This year’s theme, “Together for a Period Friendly World,” is a reminder that our work is far from over. Every girl and woman deserves the right to manage her menstruation without fear, shame, or stigma. At Shalom Rescue Foundation, we pledge to continue our efforts, advocate for change, and support those in need.
As we reflect on these activities, our hearts are filled with gratitude. The support from the Mental Health Coalition has been instrumental in making these initiatives possible. Your unwavering commitment has enabled us to reach out, educate, and empower women and girls, ensuring they can navigate their menstrual cycles with pride and dignity.
At Shalom Rescue Foundation, our mandate is clear: We work to meet the needs of abused, neglected, and at-risk children and young people. We focus our efforts on Prevention, Intervention, and Treatment through Advocacy, Awareness Raising, and Livelihood programs.
Thank you for standing with us. Together, we can create a world where menstrual hygiene is a reality for all.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Emmanuel Olufemi Duncan
Director (SRF)
