Female learners at Mothelesi Secondary School in Taung were thrilled to receive a visit from Clicks senior management, who handed over free washable, reusable sanitary pads as part of the health and beauty retailer’s 50th birthday celebrations.

“We recognise that in order to make a meaningful difference in our society, we need to contribute time and resources and are actively encouraging our store staff to reach out and support local projects,” says David Kneale, Clicks Group CEO.Clicks store staff have identified 50 charitable causes in need of assistance.

Sixteen schools will receive R1 million worth of reusable sanitary pads as part of the Girls on the Go campaign, which aims to reduce absenteeism in schools. The distribution of sanitary pads will not only enable girls from impoverished communities to attend class regularly while they have their menstruation, but also give them access to regular education and create less of a financial burden on their families.

A further 34 projects will receive support through donations of toiletries, infrastructure and basic essentials.Clicks has a long tradition of giving back to local communities. In 2011, this was consolidated under the Helping Hand Trust, which delivers free basic healthcare testing and wellness services to disadvantaged South Africans through Clicks clinics. To date, over 125 000 lives have been positively touched by the services offered at over 200 Helping Hand Trust clinics in Clicks pharmacies.“We don’t view giving back as a once-off. We actively strive to ensure that our contributions are meaningful and sustainable.

By giving back through established and new initiatives, we hope to make a positive contribution to our society that long outlives our 50th birthday,” concludes Kneale.