By BANNERNEWS Reporter
A group, PadBank Mobile Outreach, has intensified its monthly campaign on young women’s health by distributing sanitary towels to about 300 girl students of West African People’s Institute, WAPI, in Calabar Municipality, Cross River State.
Coordinator of the Non-governmental organization, Archibong Bassey noted that many young women in the state still grapple with inability to access some health services vices, especially availability of sanitary towels.
She said sanitary products remains critical to the dignity, confidence and wellbeing of women and girls.
Bassey said she took up the challenge singlehandedly by undertaking to assist the girl children with the pads.
So far, Bassey said her initiative which started early in 2025, has reached several schools and communities.
She further explained that the PadBank Mobile Outreach was created to address menstrual hygiene challenges by directly supporting girls who are unable to afford sanitary pads, thereby helping them remain confident and active in school.
She encouraged the students to remain focused on their education and make responsible choices capable of shaping their future.
“Whatever you do today reflects in your tomorrow. Do not play with your future. Discipline and commitment will always matter,” Bassey said.
She explained that the February 2026 edition of the outreach also served as part of activities to mark birthday, adding that she invited members of her class set ” WAPI 94″ to join her in giving back to her alma mater.
Before the distribution of the free sanitary pads, health talks and how to use the pads, how to dispose them and how to tackle the side effects of menstrual cycle, were given by National Health Fellows.
Receiving the team, the school’s principal, Gertrude Egbelo, commended the group for its consistency and concern for the welfare of the students.
“This gesture will go a long way in supporting our girls. It addresses an important need and shows that people truly care about their wellbeing,” the principal said.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, the Assistant Head Girl, Goodness Udo, expressed appreciation for the initiative.
“We are grateful for the sanitary pads given to us. This support means a lot to many girls who find it difficult to afford them,” she said.
The PadBank Mobile Outreach said it would continue its monthly interventions aimed at promoting menstrual hygiene and supporting vulnerable girls and women across Cross River State.
