By Michael Pepsin Avorgah, GNA
Klikor (V/R), Dec. 29, GNA – More than 100 adolescent girls at Klikor in the Ketu South Municipality of the Volta Region have benefited from the annual “Pads and Hamper” Christmas Charity Outreach organised by the Monica Hyde Foundation.
The event, held at the Klikor Unity School, brought together pupils, parents, teachers, community leaders, volunteers and civic education advocates, creating a joyful atmosphere while addressing one of the critical challenges affecting the welfare and education of girls – menstrual hygiene management.
Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Mr Lopez Newton, the Secretary of the Monica Hyde Foundation, said the initiative formed part of the organisation’s broader mission to support vulnerable girls through education, health advocacy, mentorship and social assistance.
He explained that the “Pads and Hamper” programme went beyond providing relief items, as it sought to restore confidence, dignity and hope, especially for girls from low-income homes, who often struggled to access sanitary products.
“Our commitment as a Foundation is to ensure that no girl loses her dignity, education or future because she cannot afford sanitary pads.
“This initiative is designed to meet immediate needs while inspiring the girls to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams,” he stated.
As part of the support, beneficiaries received sanitary pads, to encourage proper menstrual hygiene and reduce absenteeism from school, which was often linked to period poverty. The girls also received meals and Christmas hampers to share with their families, creating a sense of inclusion and festive joy.
Madam Marie Gomez, the School Improvement Support Officer (SISO) for the Klikor West Circuit, commended the Foundation for its consistency in supporting girl-child welfare and strengthening community-based interventions that promote education and health.
She said many brilliant girls absent from school because of avoidable challenges and praised the Foundation for stepping in to bridge that gap.
Madam Gomez appealed to other non-governmental organisations and benevolent individuals to emulate the initiative and support vulnerable children.
Mama Hodzige II, the Municipal Director of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), used the occasion to educate the girls on discipline, self-confidence, focus and the importance of staying in school.
She encouraged the beneficiaries to study hard, avoid negative peer influence and make responsible life choices, to become productive citizens capable of contributing to national development.
Some of the beneficiaries and parents who spoke with the GNA expressed appreciation to the Foundation, noting that the support had renewed confidence and brought relief, especially during the festive season.
The event concluded with songs, smiles and messages of encouragement, reaffirming the Foundation’s theme: “Together We Serve Dignity, Joy and Purpose.”
GNA
Editor by Maxwell Awumah/ Christabel Addo