In South Africa, the harsh reality of period poverty affects an estimated seven million women and girls. For many, the inability to access basic menstrual hygiene products results in missed school days, diminished self-confidence, and ongoing 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.
For over two decades, UJ has prided itself on being a University open to students from all walks of life. However, for students from underprivileged backgrounds, navigating university life often requires additional support. While has UJ assistance programmes, one being the meal assistance programme, the sheer scope of need means the institution cannot address these challenges alone. Recognising this, retail giant SPAR recently stepped in with a meaningful contribution, making a profound difference for students in need.
Through its innovative store-to-door delivery service, SPAR2U, SPAR donated 1,000 packs of sanitary towels to UJ. This initiative reflects SPAR’s commitment to addressing period poverty and empowering women across South Africa. The donation was divided between UJ’s Centre for Student Health and Wellness (CSHAW) and UJ Sport, specifically benefiting the UJ Netball team.
Sr Molimi Geya, director of CSHAW, said that the donation, emphasises the transformative impact such support has on young women’s lives. “UJ’s Centre for Student Health and Wellness wishes to extend our heartfelt gratitude to SPAR for their generous donation of sanitary pads. Your support goes a long way in promoting health and dignity for young women in need,” she said.
Sr Geya also highlighted the importance of growing partnerships with corporates like SPAR to further enhance the student experience. “This contribution is not just a donation; it’s an investment in the well-being and future of our community. With your help, we are making strides toward breaking barriers and empowering those who need it most. We deeply value your partnership and look forward to working together in the future to create an even greater impact,” she added.
The donation was also warmly welcomed by Bongi Msomi, former SPAR Proteas captain and current UJ Netball coach. Msomi praised SPAR for expanding their support to universities, in addition to their ongoing initiatives with primary schools, high schools, and clubs. “The SPAR Petals donation is quite important,” Msomi said. “I work with women student-athletes from diverse backgrounds, many of whom cannot afford sanitary towels. Donations like this one from SPAR go a long way in helping students, and this is an incredible initiative.
Msomi further highlighted how period poverty impacts women’s participation in sports. “If you speak to many girls and women, you’ll find that one of the reasons they avoid participating in sports is the anxiety of not having access to pads. Interventions like this can at least put their minds at ease,” she said.
Sr Geya concluded: “The donation from SPAR not only provides a much-needed resource but also shines a light on the often-overlooked issue of period poverty. For young women at UJ, it represents a step towards restoring dignity and levelling the playing field, whether in classrooms or on sports courts. With the help from SPAR, we are making strides toward breaking barriers and empowering those who need it most.”
