What is #Pads4Paps?
#Pads4Paps is a non-profit social-health initiative that aims to provide young women in South Africa with access to sanitary towels, enabling them to attend school without interruption during their menstruation. Founded in 2019 by Dr Colette Adams-Julius and her team at 4FR Health, this organization has made a significant impact on the lives of these girls by ensuring they receive the necessary support and resources.
**Also Read the IOL News article here: Medic leads campaign for pad donations and gynae check-ups**
In order to obtain sanitary towel donations, #Pads4Paps employs a unique approach. Participating medical doctors offer free women's health consultations, specifically papsmears, as a way to encourage donations. This creative exchange allows for a mutually beneficial arrangement where women receive essential healthcare services while contributing to a meaningful cause.
Once a year, during Women's Month, #Pads4Paps collects, distributes, and donates the need for menstrual hygiene products but also serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about Cervical Cancer and women's health in general. By shedding light on these crucial topics, #Pads4Paps helps to destigmatize conversations surrounding reproductive health and promotes overall well-being for women.
Through their efforts, #Pads4Paps has brought dignity to countless young women in South Africa, empowering them to pursue their education without the hindrance of menstruation. By addressing a fundamental need and advocating for women's health, this initiative is making a positive and lasting impact in the lives of those it serves.
Women Helping Women
“The concept of exchanging my consulting services for pad donations emerged from the simple notion of "Women helping Women." As a medical practitioner, the #Pads4Paps campaign offers significant advantages. It provides an avenue for women to support one another through pad donations while also raising awareness and offering an affordable opportunity for women to prioritize their reproductive health.”
“We warmly invite other medical professionals to join the #Pads4Paps movement and make our services available, not only during Women's Month but throughout the entire year. Together, we can make a lasting impact on women's well-being.”
Dr Colette Adams-Julius
A Growing Movement
Originally, #Pads4Paps started as a Women's Day event led by Dr Colette and a group of colleagues. They generously dedicated a day to providing women with free consultations in exchange for donations of sanitary pads. Over the course of four years, the demand for appointments and the number of people wanting to participate in #Pads4Paps grew significantly.
In response to this remarkable growth, it was decided last year and will continue in the future to extend the event throughout the entire month of August. In the 2022 event alone, Dr Colette conducted over 150 papsmears and, thanks to the support from the sanitary towel drive, we were able to donate more than 800 packs of sanitary pads to Ratang Bana. The impact of these efforts has been truly remarkable.
Ratang Bana Place of Safety
Perched atop a hill amidst bustling streets, cramped housing, and littered surroundings, Ratang Bana emerges as an oasis of rejuvenation. This urban garden, nurtured by Ingrid Moloi and Koos Maredi, symbolizes growth and optimism in an otherwise desperate setting. Located in the heart of Alexandra, South Africa, Ratang Bana is a visionary project with children at its core.
Ingrid Moloi and Koos Maredi have dedicated their entire lives to the development of Ratang Bana, where a lush green garden flourishes like a meadow in the highlands. With a profound meaning of "love the children" in the local language, Ratang Bana serves as a haven for over 460 vulnerable children, including orphans and those affected by HIV and AIDS.
This remarkable initiative not only provides these children with nourishment but also offers care and support. Fresh fruits and vegetables from the garden become a source of sustenance, promoting their well-being and health. Moreover, Ratang Bana becomes a nurturing environment that extends beyond the physical realm, offering emotional and social support to those in need.
In a place where challenges are abundant, Ratang Bana shines as a beacon of hope, illustrating the transformative power of love and dedication. Through their unwavering commitment, Ingrid Moloi and Koos Maredi have created a sanctuary where children can thrive, instilling optimism and resilience in the face of adversity.
Our Primary Beneficiary
Since its establishment in August 2019, the #Pads4Paps Sanitary Towel Drive has selected a different beneficiary each year. Our goal has always been to maximize our impact by reaching as many women in need as possible. However, we have recognized two important factors: the campaign's immense popularity among our patients and the need for a more sustainable approach to our charitable efforts.
To address this, we engaged the expertise of Craig Kensley from GrowZA, a reputable Social Investment Agency, to help us identify a long-term beneficiary for this and future campaigns.
Ratang Bana Place of Safety in Alexandra, Gauteng, emerged as the ideal choice for several compelling reasons. Ma Ingrid and Ma Thami, remarkable figures within the community, tirelessly serve the most vulnerable members of society. They not only meet the basic necessities of those on the margins but have also created a vibrant, green, and welcoming space amidst a challenging environment.
GrowZA has previously supported them in crucial ways, including water security infrastructure and the expansion of their food gardens, which benefit both the center's visitors and numerous families in the surrounding community. We consider it a privilege to contribute to the lives of those who rely on Ratang Bana.
We Love Giving Back
Community engagement has always been a core value at 4FR Health. It is important to recognize that relying solely on the government to address our challenges is not enough. When we tap into our own gifts and talents and take initiative, others are inspired to join us. All it takes is that initial step. There are numerous avenues through which we can contribute to our local and national communities. At 4FR Health, we firmly believe that leveraging our individual skills, professions, and networks as South Africans is a powerful way to make a positive difference in the lives of our fellow citizens.
Importance of Effective Screening
Cervical Cancer screening is crucial for early detection and prevention. Papsmears (cervical smears) serve as an effective screening tool in this regard. They not only detect cervical cancer but also enable doctors to identify potential infections like HPV (Human Papilloma Virus). Additionally, comprehensive gynecological exams play a vital role in diagnosing vaginal infections, menstrual irregularities, and reproductive health concerns.
Women's health encompasses various aspects that require attention and awareness. It is crucial for women and girls to understand the significance of preventative healthcare and maintaining proper feminine hygiene. Regular papsmears, ideally conducted every 1-3 years, play a vital role in early detection and management of cervical cancer, as well as addressing other feminine health concerns like bacterial or fungal infections, HPV, and STIs.
By prioritizing preventative measures and maintaining regular check-ups, women can proactively safeguard their well-being and effectively manage potential health issues.
Get Involved !! We Need Your Help
Sanitary towels play a crucial role in bringing dignity to young women in South Africa, ensuring uninterrupted education and schooling during menstruation. We aspire to see increased participation from colleagues in the medical fraternity as well as corporate entities. However, the potential for involvement extends beyond these spheres. Professionals from all walks of life can contribute their time in exchange for donations, ensuring that no girl experiences mockery at school due to menstruation and no woman in our country suffers the embarrassment of lacking access to basic sanitary pads.
Moreover, we extend our call for assistance in the collection and distribution of sanitary pads to not only women and girls but to all individuals, companies, and organizations. Together, we can enable women and girls to menstruate with dignity by providing them with proper sanitary products, thereby minimizing disruptions to their education, income, and overall well-being. Let us unite in this cause and empower women to lead fulfilling lives without the barriers imposed by menstrual hygiene challenges.
Connect With Us
For more info, or to donate to the cause, please contact:
Chelsea Moses
WhatsApp: 073 338 9938
Landline: 021 919 9333
Email: pads4paps@4fr.co.za
