This review was written by GFoundation Korea about their support efforts.
Insole Pads: Neglected Health of Vulnerable Young Women
In May 2016,
we learned that due to financial hardship, young women were forced to use shoe insoles, cardboard, and newspapers instead of sanitary pads. This revealed that these young women were not being protected in terms of essential health needs.
The Highest Price for Sanitary Pads Among OECD Countries
The price of sanitary pads in Korea is the highest among OECD countries.In Korea, a sanitary pad costs between 260 to 331 KRW per piece, which is 50% to 70% more expensive than in major countries such as Japan, France, Denmark, the United States, and Canada.
Rapid Inflation
The price of sanitary pads in Korea has continuously increased. According to data from the Korea Consumer Agency’s Price Information Portal, prices are rising each year, which is devastating for young people who cannot afford them.
Identifying Gaps in Welfare
The Ministry of Gender Equality and Family continues to provide menstrual aid, but it is limited to those below 50% of the median income. Low-income families, those with many children, single-parent families, multicultural families, people with disabilities, and young adults preparing for independence who are above 50% of the median income still fall into welfare blind spots.
To prevent health issues and improve self-esteem, we aim to reach and support marginalized communities excluded from government aid through the sanitary pad support program.
How Many People Have We Helped?
Since the “insole pad” controversy, G-Foundation has consistently provided sanitary pads not only to young women but also to vulnerable women, supporting a total of 85,841 individuals.
What Kind of Support Has Been Provided?
GFoundation has provided not only sanitary pads but also underwear, hygiene facility renovations, and sexual education support for children and adolescents, providing comprehensive support for the community.
Sanitary Pad Support Program
GFoundation conveys its value of “People Matter” by supplying sanitary pads and various items needed during the menstrual period to meet the needs of recipients.
Underwear Support Program
The underwear support program includes male adolescents, running regardless of gender. Participants can choose their desired sizes, brands, and colors, learning to appreciate and care for their bodies.
Hygiene Facility Renovation Program
The hygiene facility renovation program ensures that beneficiaries can maintain cleanliness and health by using clean restrooms.
Sex Education Support Program
Through sex education, participants develop a proper understanding of sexuality and transform fears related to menstruation into positive feelings.
Here’s How the Children Have Benefited:
“My worries about sanitary pads
have decreased!”
“I have plenty of sanitary pads and feel like
I received a gift.”
“When I grow up, I want to be someone
who helps others, too.”
We initiated the sanitary pad support program to ensure that no one faces discrimination or disadvantage due to a lack of menstrual products.
We sincerely thank the donors and partners who contribute to a society where we care for each other’s struggles,
creating a world where givers and receivers are indistinguishable.
Thanks to everyone who values each person, children, and vulnerable groups are gaining strength to live.
Please join G-Foundation in the journey to create a beautiful and healthy society.
Thank you.
