UJ and SPAR Unite to combat period poverty

An estimated seven million women and girls in South Africa are unable to access basic menstrual hygiene products, resulting in missed school, diminished self-confidence, and challenges to personal dignity. Among these seven million are young women within the walls of the University of Johannesburg (UJ), for whom financial struggles mean necessities like food and toiletries often become unaffordable luxuries.

An article posted on the UJ website highlights the issue of period poverty in South Africa, which affects around seven million women and girls, including students at the University of Johannesburg (UJ). Many young women at UJ struggle to afford basic necessities, including menstrual hygiene products.

To help address this challenge, retail giant SPAR through its SPAR2U delivery service, donated 1 000 packs of sanitary towels to UJ’s Centre for Student Health and Wellness (CSHAW) and the UJ Netball team.

UJ representatives, including Sr Molimi Geya from CSHAW and Bongi Msomi, UJ Netball coach and former SPAR Proteas captain, expressed gratitude for the donation, emphasising its impact on students’ well-being, self-confidence, and ability to participate in sports. Msomi highlighted that lack of access to sanitary products often prevents women from engaging in sports.

The initiative underscores the importance of corporate partnerships in addressing period poverty and empowering young women. UJ hopes to continue working with companies like SPAR to support students in need and create long-term positive change.

View the original article:
https://news.uj.ac.za/news/uj-and-spar-unite-to-combat-period-poverty/

In the image:
Representatives of UJ’s Centre for Student Health and Wellness (CSHAW), the DFC Clinic and SPAR
In the middle of the back row is Sr Molimi Geya, the director of CSHAW and SAACHS chairperson.