The HerFlow Foundation has answered the call once again, this time with a powerful donation of over 14,000 tampons with the support of Kotex distributed by T Geddes Grant, to benefit the female students residing on the halls at The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona Campus on April 17, 2025. The donation comes after several Resident Advisors (RAs) from different halls reached out to HerFlow, highlighting a growing concern: students are struggling to afford essential personal care items like menstrual products.
As the cost of tertiary education continues to climb, so too do the day-to-day expenses associated with student life. Tuition, textbooks, rent, transportation, and meals often leave little room in the budget for hygiene necessities. Yet, for many young women, period care is not optional—it’s essential.
“At HerFlow, we believe that no girl should have to choose between her education and managing her period with dignity,” said Shelly-Ann Weeks, Executive Director of HerFlow Foundation. “This donation is part of our ongoing commitment to keeping girls in school and ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive—not just academically, but personally as well.”
The request for support was led in part by Shameka McKenzie, Resident Advisor at Towers Hall, who saw firsthand how a lack of access to period products was negatively impacting her residents.
“I’ve had several students come to me distressed because they simply couldn’t afford pads or tampons,” said McKenzie. “It’s more than just a hygiene issue—when a student is missing classes, avoiding social settings, or struggling emotionally because of a lack of basic products, their entire university experience is affected. This donation goes a long way in restoring their confidence and focus.”
Students living with food insecurity and financial hardship are especially vulnerable. Many face the impossible choice of whether to buy lunch or a pack of tampons. For Sabrina Barnes, a student advocate on campus, this donation is a lifeline.
“So many of us are stretching every dollar just to make it through the semester. Knowing that menstrual products are available at no cost means less stress and more dignity,” said Barnes. “It shows us that we are seen, supported, and not alone.”
This initiative is not just about providing products—it’s about removing barriers, breaking stigma, and ensuring that every girl and young woman has the freedom to pursue her education without interruption or embarrassment. HerFlow Foundation will continue to partner with institutions across Jamaica to support young women on their educational journey.
For more information about HerFlow Foundation and how you can support menstrual equity initiatives, visit www.herflowfoundation.com.
