In a fitting culmination to recognise Mental Health Awareness Month, the HerFlow Foundation donated 30 cases of menstrual pads to Bellevue Hospital on May 20.

The donation, according to HerFlow, is a direct response to a formal request from Jamaica’s national mental health facility, which serves 400 clients, over half of whom are women.

The contribution aims to support Bellevue’s efforts to promote compassionate, holistic care for its female clients, many of whom lack consistent access to essential hygiene products.  The donation underscores HerFlow Foundation’s commitment to ensuring menstrual dignity and equity for all, especially those living with mental illness who are often overlooked in discussions about period poverty.

“Menstrual dignity is a human right, not a privilege,” said Shelly Ann Weeks, founder and executive director of HerFlow Foundation

“Mental illness does not remove someone’s need for care, respect and hygiene. Our commitment is to ensure that even the most vulnerable Jamaicans, like the women at Bellevue Hospital, can manage their period with dignity.  We are proud to support Bellevue as a part of our broader mission to end period poverty in Jamaica.”

“Bellevue Hospital extends heartfelt thanks to the HerFlow Foundation for their generous donation of sanitary napkins for our female clients,” said Roshea Masters, public relations manager at Bellevue Hospital.

“This meaningful gesture goes beyond addressing a basic need, affirms the dignity and humanity of the women we care for, full stop. Mental illness does not pause for menstruation, and access to menstrual products is an often-overlooked but vital aspect of holistic care.  Thanks to HerFlow, we are better equipped to bridge this gap and ensure our clients feel seen, supported and respected, full stop. We are truly grateful for their partnership and advocacy.”

This donation is one of several initiatives led by HerFlow Foundation during the month of May to highlight the intersection of mental health, mental health and human dignity. 

HerFlow continues to work nationwide to end period poverty through advocacy, education, and direct support, ensuring that every Jamaican has access to safe and dignified periods, regardless of their circumstances.