Celebrating Menstrual Health Day: Packing with Purpose for Dignity Dreams
On 28 May, in celebration of Menstrual Health Day, a team of dedicated young volunteers came together to support a cause that empowers girls, breaks taboos, and promotes dignity—one washable pad at a time. Hosted by Dignity Dreams, this special volunteering day focused on packing reusable sanitary pad kits for girls in need across South Africa.
The event was a hands-on, heart-led initiative to mark a day that raises awareness about menstrual health and the importance of access to safe, affordable, and sustainable period products. For millions of girls and women, menstruation can still be a source of shame, isolation, or missed opportunities—especially in communities where period poverty is a daily reality. That’s why the work Dignity Dreams does is so critical, and why volunteer support is invaluable.
The energy in the room was inspiring from the start. Tables were set up with all the essentials: washable pads, underwear, educational brochures, plastic zip bags, and colourful drawstring bags to hold the kits. Volunteers quickly got into a rhythm—some folding and sorting, others packing, checking, and sealing each kit with care.
Each Dignity Dreams pack contains 6 washable pads, underwear, and information about menstrual hygiene—everything a girl needs to manage her period with dignity for up to 5 years. The volunteers understood that these kits were more than just products—they were tools of empowerment, allowing girls to stay in school, maintain their confidence, and live without the fear of embarrassment or stigma.
As they packed, the volunteers also learned about menstrual health challenges faced by girls in under-resourced areas. The day became not just an act of service, but a meaningful educational experience. Discussions sparked curiosity, empathy, and a desire to do more. Many volunteers expressed surprise at the scale of period poverty in South Africa—and pride in being part of the solution.
By the end of the session, hundreds of kits had been packed and stacked, ready to be distributed through Dignity Dreams’ school and community outreach programmes. Every volunteer walked away knowing that their contribution would have a direct and lasting impact on someone’s life.
We extend our deepest thanks to each and every volunteer who gave their time, energy, and enthusiasm to this event. Your efforts helped us make Menstrual Health Day more than just a date on the calendar—it became a day of action, change, and compassion.
All participants also earned certified service hours, contributing meaningfully toward school Life Orientation requirements while engaging in real-world community impact. It’s service with soul—and it’s something to be truly proud of.
To everyone who joined us: thank you. You helped challenge stigma, promote dignity, and support menstrual health for girls across the country. Let’s continue to break the silence and build a world where no one is held back by their period.
Keep following us for more volunteer opportunities—because when we come together, we can change lives.