UTech, Jamaica Strengthens Fight Against Period Poverty with Major Donation from HerFlow Foundation

The University of Technology, Jamaica has received a donation of over 5,000 tampons from the HerFlow Foundation, supported by Kotex, as part of the university’s ongoing efforts to address period poverty, a cause closely aligned with UTech, Jamaica’s commitment to quality education and student well-being. The presentation was made on Friday, April 11, 2025, to the Division of Student Services and Registry.

Founded in 2016, by activist Ms. Shelly-Ann Weeks, HerFlow Foundation is dedicated to empowering women and girls through education on reproductive health and rights. As outlined by HerFlow Foundation, the organization’s flagship initiative to End Period Poverty in Jamaica, positions it as the country’s leading voice on period poverty and highlights its impact on the daily lives of Jamaicans.

The initiative builds upon the university’s Live Safe College Tour, held on Thursday, February 20, 2025. The event recorded a notable increase in average student attendance, signaling a growing interest and engagement in reproductive health awareness. The event also functioned as a successful donation drive, collecting over 4,000 sanitary and personal hygiene products. These contributions have significantly enhanced the university’s capacity to support student wellness and ensure access to essential hygiene items.

The donated products will be distributed to the Student Welfare Unit, the Medical Centre, the Halls of Residence, the Western Campus, the Special Needs Unit, the Dental School, and the School of Public Health and Health Technology. These distribution points were selected based on student engagement and demonstrated need to ensure equitable and effective allocation of resources.

Mrs. Heather White, Health Services Manager, UTech, Jamaica Medical Centre, emphasized the real-life challenges faced by female students who are unable to afford menstrual products. She noted that many students have come to the Medical Centre requesting sanitary napkins, with some even resorting to creating makeshift pads due to lack of access. “They can’t come to school, and if they come to school, accidents are more likely,” she explained, highlighting how period poverty directly affects students’ ability to attend classes and engage fully in their education.

She also spoke to the emotional and psychological toll that period stigma continues to place on young women, noting that their attention shifts from academics to concerns about their bodies and how they are perceived by their peers. “It comes with shame,” she said. “In our culture, menstruation is still seen as something dirty. So, we really want to build the confidence and personalities of these young ladies—to encourage them, to let them know there is a safe space for them.”