Meera Venugopal, a junior at Hamilton Southeastern High School, has received the National Association of Secondary School Principals’ Student Service Grant. The NASSP awards grants to student leaders who lead impactful service projects in their communities.
In 2021, Venugopal co-founded M and D Mission with her sister. Over the years, their organization has partnered with groups such as Riley’s Children’s Hospital, Changing Footprints, local food banks, and elementary and middle schools.
“When I first learned that many elementary and middle schools did not have easy access to hygiene products,” said Venugopal, “it deeply concerned me. I realized how uncomfortable and isolating that experience must be for young girls who are still learning about their changing bodies.”
She decided to take action. As there is a growing number of girls starting their menstrual cycle early, it becomes crucial that elementary and middle schools are properly prepared.
“In many middle schools,” said Venugopal, “bathrooms either have paid dispensers or lack hygiene products altogether, leaving students without access to essential items when they need them most.” M and D Mission aims to make products more accessible in these places to help end the embarrassment and anxiety surrounding menstruation.
M and D Mission will use the grant money from NASSP to continue and expand their previous initiative. “I will collect donations of cosmetic bags,” said Venugopal, “which are the perfect size to hold essential hygiene products such as pads, liners, undergarments, and wipes.” After, they fill them with the necessary supplies and distribute them to elementary and middle school nurses.
They additionally aim to spread positivity with their kits. “Each bag also includes a small card with a positive and encouraging handwritten message to help boost confidence and reduce the stigma surrounding menstruation,” said Venugopal.
Venugopal is very passionate about M and D Mission, stating, “I am incredibly grateful to receive this grant from NASSP, and I hope to ensure that no students in our community feel unprepared, embarrassed, or excluded because of basic hygiene products.”
