More than 1,000 packages of period products have been delivered to women in remote communities, as part of the RFDS’s pilot initiative with Share the Dignity in the Northern Territory.
Since May 2022, the RFDS has teamed up with Share the Dignity, utilising existing flight routes, outreach health clinics and connections with communities to distribute donated items.
The RFDS Darwin Tourist Facility at Stokes Hill Wharf and the RFDS Darwin Base on Lancaster Road act as collection points, enabling the public to donate women’s sanitary products.
RFDS Operations Coordinator, Renee Douglas said the RFDS is thrilled to be supporting Share the Dignity across the NT, so far delivering period products to more than a dozen remote communities.
“Some of these communities are so remote that even trucks can only get out to them a couple of times a year due to flooding or poor road conditions and those trucks simply can’t carry enough products,” she said.
“Using our extensive reach and established relationships with communities, the Flying Doctor can get these vital items to those who ordinarily don’t have affordable and convenient access.
“Collaborating with Share the Dignity is just a natural extension of what we already do, supporting healthier and happier Australians.”
Share the Dignity Founder and Managing Director, Rochelle Courtenay said she is delighted to have the support of the RFDS through its Indigenous Menstrual Health Program.
“Everyone should be able to manage their period with dignity and we know it can be especially difficult in remote communities due to the price of period products skyrocketing,” Rochelle said.
“By working with the RFDS we no longer have to worry about how we will get the period products to remote areas in the NT.”
The RFDS will look to explore further opportunities to support Share the Dignity, as it continues to deliver the finest care to the furthest corner.
How you can help
If you live in the Top End, you can visit either the RFDS Darwin Tourist Facility at Stokes Hill Wharf or the RFDS Darwin Base on Lancaster Road to donate period products. We accept all products in original packaging, including pads, tampons, maternity pads, period undies, menstrual cups, incontinence products.
Both the RFDS and Share the Dignity rely on monetary donations to keep supporting people in the NT.
