KUCHING, Apr 30: The Old Marian Association and Sarawak Women for Women Society (SWWS) worked together to provide the needy with what is usually missing from an essential items package – sanitary pads.
In a joint press statement today, the two associations noted that since MCO, Sarawakians have been working hard at many levels to ensure that essential needs of the poor are met.
“However, one crucial need until now has been overlooked. It took some women to notice it and do something about it.
“That need is the protection during monthly periods. Just as it is hard for many families during this challenging time to find cash for food, it is also hard for the girls and women in such families to be able to spend on sanitary pads.
“The world rushed to buy toilet paper when lockdown came. For the females, equally essential are sanitary pads. Yet, for the poor, how can they spare the cash? Also, for those living rurally, how would their usual supplies reach them?”
This gap in provision was noted by both the Old Marian Association and Sarawak Women for Women Society (SWWS) which have worked together to raise donations to provide sanitary pads for those who cannot afford it.
As of today, both associations have managed to provide for 250 women and girls.
The two associations, believed that more can be done and they hope other organisations would follow their lead and donate so that whenever food essential is sent, women’s sanitary pads may be among the essential goods delivered.
Those wishing to donate to the Old Marian Association for the #JagaSamaDirik project can contact Jasmine Wong on 0128286218 or just drop off sanitary pads and/or panty liners at the entrance of Creative Heritage Innovation Centre (CHIC) at Bangunan Yayasan, Jalan Masjid Kuching from 9am to 3pm daily.
Alternatively, donations can be made to Persatuan Bekas Pelajar. For further information, do write to omahelpcovid19@gmail.com. —DayakDaily
