IN recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, HerFlow Foundation donated 30 cases of menstrual pads to Bellevue Hospital, Jamaica’s national mental health facility on May 20, 2025. The donation is a direct response to a formal request from the hospital which serves more than 400 clients, over half of whom are women.

The foundation said 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,“ it said.

Shelly-Ann Weeks, founder and executive director of the foundation, said menstrual dignity is a human right and not a privilege.

“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,“ she said.

“We are proud to support Bellevue as a part of our broader mission to end the period poverty in Jamaica.”

The hospital praised the donation as not only timely, but transformational.

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

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

This donation was 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 Foundation is a non-profit organisation dedicated to improving menstrual health and addressing key social issues affecting women and girls in Jamaica.