"This isn’t just a run, it’s a movement”: How a run is restoring dignity and tackling period poverty

Imagine a day filled with vibrant colors, joyous laughter, and the powerful sound of a community coming together for a cause.

That’s exactly what the #AgainstPeriodPoverty Color Run is all about.

This Saturday, people of all ages will lace up their sneakers, not just for fun, but to make a real difference by combating period poverty.

“This isn’t just a run, it’s a movement,” said founder of #AgainstPeriodPoverty, Lindsey Adams.

“We’re raising as many donations of sanitary towels as possible and starting important conversations about period poverty. It’s a fun way to get the community involved in an issue that matters deeply.”

Participants won’t need much to sign up for this event. Instead, the entry fee is five packs of sanitary towels, with a collective goal of gathering 3,000 packs by the end of the day.

The donations will go directly to schools, feeding schemes, churches, and other institutions that cater to menstruating individuals in need.

“Sanitary towels are a basic necessity, just like toilet paper,” Adams said.

“Yet, they’re still expensive for many families. By collecting and distributing these essential items, we’re restoring dignity and helping girls stay in school. It’s one less thing for them to worry about.”

Adams believes that events like the Color Run do more than collect donations, they spark change.

“Raising awareness around period poverty can lead to long-term solutions,” she said.

“It reduces stigma, improves access to menstrual hygiene products, and empowers young girls and women to talk openly about their periods. We’re also addressing health risks and even policy issues tied to period poverty.”

The campaign works hand in hand with the Department of Social Development, which donates sanitary pads to some schools in the Western Cape. However, Adams emphasises that the work doesn’t stop there.

“We engage with schools not covered by these programs, as well as feeding schemes and churches, to provide menstrual hygiene education and distribute pads. The need is massive, but every packet makes a difference.”

The Color Run promises to be as entertaining as it is impactful. Participants can look forward to loads of fun, great prizes, food stalls, and live entertainment.

“It’s all about creating a joyful experience,” said Adams.

“Color runs are always fun, but when you add a meaningful cause like this, it becomes something truly special.”

The event wouldn’t be possible without partnerships, including ongoing support from Loot.co.za, Ruby Rose Feminine Sanitary Pads, and the City of Cape Town Cycling Team.

“Loot.co.za joined us during the Enlit24 event, where they sponsored stationery for top students from schools we work with,” Adams said.

“Now, they’re helping us raise awareness and collect sanitary pads. It’s incredible to have their support.”

For Adams, it’s the small moments that keep her going.

“Every time we visit a school; I see how much a simple packet of sanitary pads means to these girls. When they thank you with a smile or show excitement when they see you outside school, it reminds me why we’re doing this,” she added.

“It’s about restoring their dignity and making them feel seen.”

IOL