Woodlands Dairy’s First Choice has donated R20,000 to the Imbumba Foundation as a crucial part of their Back to School campaign.

This contribution is specifically allocated to support the Caring4Girls Programme, an initiative devoted to addressing the pressing challenges of menstrual health and education for young girls in South Africa.

Established in 2012 by Richard Mabaso, the Caring4Girls Programme was inspired by the stark reality that millions of girls in South Africa confront educational obstacles due to insufficient access to proper sanitary protection and reproductive health education.

Marilee Jansen van Nieuwenhuizen, Brand Manager at Woodlands Dairy and First Choice, underscored the critical nature of the cause, highlighting that a substantial number of girls miss precious school days, leading to some ultimately discontinuing their education. "The Imbumba Foundation was deliberately chosen as one of the beneficiaries of our Back to School campaign. Our aim is to provide unwavering support to ensure these girls do not miss a single day of school. Many girls refrain from attending school for several days due to a lack of access to sanitary pads.”

Recognising the paramount importance of education, she believes it has the power to break the cycle of poverty. “By granting youngsters access to education, we increase the likelihood of them acquiring the essential skills necessary to secure improved economic opportunities in the future. Education equips them with vital skills such as literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving, all of which are fundamental for personal development and can significantly enhance their ability to contribute productively to the workforce.”

Caring4Girls aims to break this cycle of poverty by giving a voice to young girls, instilling dignity, and fostering confidence. “We passionately believe that education stands at the forefront in breaking the cycle of poverty. It’s our collective responsibility to contribute to a brighter future that offers enhanced economic opportunities,” Van Nieuwenhuizen concludes.

First Choice is unwavering in its commitment to education and children's well-being through active charity contributions. Their Back to School Campaign offers consumers the chance to win a share of R200,000 towards school fees, reflecting First Choice's belief in the transformative power of education and their dedication to making a positive impact in young learners' lives.

The Caring4Girls Programme, instrumental in providing menstrual health education, hygiene products, and advocating for policy changes, aims to empower vulnerable and indigent girls.

For more details on the Caring4Girls Programme and the Imbumba Foundation, please visit.

 https://imbumbafoundation.org/caring4girls/.