Soroptimists in Leigh and the surrounding area are acting as local co-ordinators for The Red Box Project.
This is an expanding nationwide community initiative. It provides free sanitary items, aiming to ensure that no young woman misses school because she has her period.
There are red boxes in all seven local high schools; and the Pelican Swimming Centre in Tyldesley has put in a request for one. ‘Period poverty’ is an emotive – and serious – issue.
SI Leigh & District’s next aim will be to place red boxes in junior schools and sports clubs.
Success depends on sustainability. The Soroptimists have already placed a donation box in Morrisons supermarket, and agreed three more donation points. This will help maintain the supply of sanitary products on an ongoing basis.
This project relies on community kindness – all donations go to help those girls who struggle on a monthly basis.