Code Red Initiative was established in response to the heightened inaccessibility to sanitary products within vulnerable communities during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The project originally took the form of a short-term pad drive for girls and women in Masiphumelele township but after interacting with community members it became clear that there was a large need for long-term solutions to address period poverty in the area.
Founded by 3 friends with backgrounds in social development, psychology and environmental sciences, the foundation of the organization was formed upon the mutual respect for humanity and nature. The assessment of several potential solutions that empower people and preserve the environment eventually led to the plan to locally produce washable sanitary pads.
By the end of 2020, seamstresses were trained on how to assemble pads and pilot menstrual kits were provided to girls and women in Masiphumelele, Ocean View and Red Hill. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Thereafter, we began operating and seamstresses in Masiphumelele continued to make reusable pads that were provided to the nearby communities.
Yet as our initiative gained momentum, the knowledge surrounding sexual and reproductive health, especially among the youth, remained limited. In response, Code Red Initiative sought to address the lack of information and open dialogue around these topics by partnering with community members to establish safe spaces where girls could learn about their bodies without fear or judgment.
In 2022, Code Red Initiative began facilitating interactive workshops within the community with various age groups. Workshops equipped youth with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health and inspired a community of confident and empowered girls.
After 4 years of functioning as a passion driven project funded by a small grant, collaborations with businesses and crowdfunding, Code Red Initiative officially became a registered non-profit organization in 2024. With four years of dedication under our belt, we have forged valuable connections within our community. Armed with experience and newfound opportunities, we are eager to embrace the path that lies ahead as we continue to nurture a generation of empowered girls and women.
About Us
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