Sat | Apr 4, 2026

Schools welcome expanded menstrual kit drive from JWN Foundation

Published:Saturday | April 4, 2026 | 12:35 AM
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Samara South, a member of the JWN Foundation, takes some time to share in this picture moment with girls from Balmagie Primary School.
Contributed
Samara South, a member of the JWN Foundation, takes some time to share in this picture moment with girls from Balmagie Primary School.
Debbie Jarrett, a JWN Foundation volunteer, stocking the menstrual product dispenser with sanitary napkins and wipes at the Balmagie Primary School.
Contributed
Debbie Jarrett, a JWN Foundation volunteer, stocking the menstrual product dispenser with sanitary napkins and wipes at the Balmagie Primary School.
Students of the Balmagie Primary school with their menstrual kits gifted to them by the JWN Foundation as part of their End Period Poverty Initiative.
Contributed
Students of the Balmagie Primary school with their menstrual kits gifted to them by the JWN Foundation as part of their End Period Poverty Initiative.
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The JWN Foundation (JWNF) this week distributed 1,795 menstrual kits to schoolgirls in Kingston, Clarendon and St Elizabeth, as part of its ongoing End Period Poverty Drive.

Launched in 2020, the initiative seeks to improve access to essential menstrual products for girls who might otherwise go without because of financial constraints, inconsistent availability, and competing household priorities. It was developed in response to evidence that limited access to menstrual products and facilities increases the likelihood of girls missing school or struggling to participate fully in class.

Working in partnership with T. Geddes Grant, the JWNF completed the first phase of this year’s distribution on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Kits containing sanitary napkins and flushable wipes were delivered to girls at 17 schools across the three parishes. This donation marks the first of two scheduled distributions, with a second tranche of 1,795 kits planned for September 2026. Together, the two drops bring the foundation’s total commitment for the year to 3,590 menstrual kits.

Schools report that while the support has been impactful, a single annual distribution has not been sufficient to meet needs throughout the academic year. “The support has made a meaningful difference for our students, particularly in helping them remain engaged and confident at school,” said Monica Smiley, principal of Race Course Primary. “Previously, with only one distribution for the year, we often struggled once supplies ran out. The additional visit and increased support will help us better meet students’ needs throughout the school year.”

“The provision of these products has become an essential part of our outreach efforts, as the need within our communities remains significant,” said Garfene Grandison, general manager of the JWNF. “Feedback from schools made it clear that a single annual distribution was not sufficient, which informed our decision to expand the programme to two scheduled distributions for 2026. This allows us to provide more consistent support throughout the school year, to ensure that there is coverage for any eventuality.”

This year, the foundation also expanded the initiative’s scope by installing menstrual product dispensers in all 17 participating institutions across Kingston, Clarendon and St Elizabeth. The addition is intended to ensure consistent, year-round access to menstrual products for girls in underserved communities. Alongside product distribution, educational sessions are conducted with students to reinforce proper hygiene practices and the correct use and disposal of menstrual products. These sessions are facilitated by foundation volunteers and partner organisations.