Empowering Dignity: “Access PAD Me A Girl Initiative” Delivers Hygiene Relief to Ortese IDP Camp
In a bold step toward advancing menstrual hygiene and restoring dignity among displaced women and girls, the Access PAD Me A Girl Initiative, a flagship project of GATMASH Media, carried out an impactful outreach at the Ortese Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.
The initiative, supported by Access Bank and other key partners, provided reusable sanitary pads, exercise books, pens, and food items to residents of the camp—an effort aimed at addressing the harsh realities faced by displaced women and children, particularly in managing menstrual health and education.
For many women and girls in IDP camps, menstrual hygiene remains an often-overlooked challenge. With limited access to sanitary products and inadequate hygiene facilities, they are forced to rely on unhygienic alternatives that put their health, safety, and dignity at risk. Recognizing this, the Access PAD Me A Girl Initiative stepped in with a sustainable solution.
“We came all the way from Lagos to Benue not just to donate, but to educate,” said Theresa Moses, Convener of the initiative. “These reusable sanitary pads can last up to a year. They’re not only cost-effective and eco-friendly, but they empower young girls to manage their periods with dignity.”
The team also launched a Pad Bank at Ortese Camp to ensure continued access and support. This sustainable approach ensures that long after the outreach, the girls will still have the resources they need.
In her address, Moses highlighted the unequal awareness campaigns around sexual health, noting that while condoms are readily promoted, menstrual hygiene still lacks widespread advocacy. She added, “Every girl deserves to menstruate with confidence. That’s why we are here—not just to give, but to teach.”
The Ortese outreach was made possible through the collaboration of several sponsors, including Access Bank, Checkers Custard, Vita Baites Foods, GATMASH NEWS, Jeffrey Kuraun Foundation, Pro Star, and other dedicated partners. Their support underscores the power of public-private partnerships in solving real-world challenges.
Accompanying Moses were committed team members: Mrs. Salome Alomah, Mr. Iliya J. Galadima, Engr. Michael Hosea, Dr. Michael Morah, Angela, and Terfa Tsetim—whose passion and teamwork helped deliver the program’s success.
The Ortese Camp Manager, Elizabeth Asan, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the gesture. “This will go a long way in helping our women and children, especially the girls. We are truly grateful,” she said.
Camp residents welcomed the team with warmth, songs, and appreciation—demonstrating the deep connection and impact of the initiative.
This intervention follows the team’s previous successful outreach at the Durumi IDP Camp in Abuja, and marks another milestone in their mission to restore hope, dignity, and hygiene to vulnerable populations. With plans to expand to more IDP camps across Nigeria, the Access PAD Me A Girl Initiative continues to lead the charge in sustainable menstrual care and humanitarian service.
