A Cape Town-based non-profit organisation (NPO), New Heritage Foundation (NHF), has launched its annual She Matters Campaign, a two-month initiative running from April to May this year in recognition of International Menstrual Health Month, aimed at tackling period poverty and restoring dignity to young girls.

NHF is dedicated to ending period poverty. It focuses on period impact initiatives, aiming to ensure no young girl or woman is left behind due to menstruation.

The group was recently recognised for making significant strides in advancing gender equality and youth empowerment after getting an award at the Voice and Choice Summit in Johannesburg.

The campaign is driven by a simple but urgent message: no girl should have to choose between her education and her period, said NHF founder, Chantelle Goliath.

“Globally, more than 500 million women and girls menstruate without adequate resources, while in South Africa alone, over seven million girls face limited access to sanitary products. This often leads to absenteeism, low self-esteem and, in some cases, school dropouts,” she explained.

Through the She Matters Campaign, NHF partners with schools, businesses, communities and donors to provide sanitary products directly to learners.

“Each participating school receives about 90 boxes of sanitary pads to ensure girls have consistent access while at school. This year, the campaign aims to support 21 schools, reaching nearly 3 900 girls.

“Beyond product distribution, the initiative focuses strongly on awareness, dignity and inclusion. School-based ambassadors are appointed to guide learners on how to access sanitary products freely and without stigma.

“This approach helps create a safe and supportive environment where girls can attend school confidently and participate fully in their education,” she said.

NHF emphasises that menstruation, while natural, remains a significant barrier for many young girls. “Without proper access to sanitary products, learners are more likely to miss school or feel excluded, impacting not only their education but also their long-term opportunities and well-being,” she explained.

The organisation is calling on individuals, businesses and community stakeholders to support the campaign. A donation of R300 provides one box of sanitary pads, directly assisting a girl in need. Section 18A certificates are also available for eligible donors.

Early support for the campaign has already made an impact.

“The APC Bon Church contributed sanitary products to girls with disabilities, while Yusra Alberts continues to raise awareness annually by dedicating her birthday to collecting pad donations for the initiative. International support has also come in, with Kailey Seiller from California donating 34 boxes of sanitary pads,” she said.

NHF also welcomes volunteers with experience in running campaigns to help expand its reach and meet their targets this year.

With the She Matters Campaign, NHF reinforces its message that dignity is not optional. By ensuring access to basic sanitary products, the organisation hopes to empower young girls, keep them in school and affirm that their health, education and future truly matter.

For more information contact Goliath at 072 400 9361.

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