The Ministry of the People, Social Development and Family Services has stepped up its support for menstrual health access among vulnerable women and girls, handing over a one-off grant of $36,400 to the non-profit A Touch of Joy Foundation.
The funding will back the Foundation’s Fight for Her Dignity initiative, a twelve-month programme aimed at improving access to menstrual hygiene resources and health education in underserved communities.
Minister of the People, Social Development and Family Services, the Honourable Vandana Mohit, presented the grant to Ms. Mala Jadoonanan, Vice President of A Touch of Joy Foundation, during a handover ceremony on Saturday, September 19, at the Foundation’s base in Chase Village, Carapichaima.
Speaking at the event, Minister Mohit said it was a pleasure to support and witness the meaningful work being carried out within local communities, adding that the Ministry remains committed to partnering with organisations like A Touch of Joy Foundation to ensure vulnerable women and girls have the resources and support they need.
Under the initiative, an estimated 500 women and girls are expected to directly benefit from a range of services, including menstrual hygiene and personal care kits, menstrual health education sessions, women’s health and wellness programming, public awareness and advocacy efforts, and referrals to health and social support services. A further 1,500 people are expected to benefit indirectly through associated educational and public awareness activities.
The Ministry said the grant strengthens its capacity to connect vulnerable women and girls with essential resources, information and support within their own communities, while also addressing an immediate need and helping to build wider awareness and understanding of menstrual health.