General News
21 March, 2025
Donations to give a bit of dignity
Having the necessary supplies when a female experiences her period is essential, but it's not a dignity all women have.
That's why the charity Share the Dignity has campaigns focused on collecting period products for those in need twice a year: in March and in August.
Local volunteer Melissa Matheson is in the midst of assisting in co-ordinating the drive under regional leader Lauren Read, ensuring drop-off points are collected from and deliveries are made to charity partners.
Ms Matheson has been with the organisation for seven years after reading that period poverty was a problem for girls and women not being able to access or afford period products.
"I love this organisation because it's so transparent in seeing how our work as volunteers collecting period products directly impacts girls and women in need through charities that provide period products to their clients," she said.
Ms Matheson said over the years she had seen an increase in demand from charity partners for products.
"Working with the charities is rewarding, knowing we're making a difference for women and providing them with the dignity and relief that they can make it through another period without having to use folded-up toilet paper or a sock as an alternative," she said.
Residents in the Wimmera are asked to donate pads, tampons, incontinence pads or reusable period products if they are in a financial position to do so.
Horsham residents can drop donations into a bright pink collection box at Goodstart Early Learning Centre or Woolworths.
Charities in the Wimmera have requested 200 period products this month, while nationwide more than 150,000 items have been requested.
Ms Matheson said she would also like to see more volunteers in the Mallee/Wimmera region join the organisation.
"For those who can use a mobile app, have a driver's licence and can spend a few hours each week during March, August and November it can be really rewarding to help in your community," she said.
People interested can sign up at sharethedignity.org.au.