Competition among local high schools is nothing new, but two teenaged activists are upping the ante to see which of their schools can collect more pads and tampons for Tampon Tuesday.
At F.J. Brennan Catholic High School, Mira Gillis is rallying her fellow students.
At St. Joseph's, it is Jada Mallot.
Mallot has much experience helping on Tampon Tuesday. Over the past few years, she has worked alongside her father, Michael Mallott as he collected from his coworkers at the Windsor Assembly Plant, but this year she is striking out on her own.
"When I was talking to my school, I was really nervous that nobody would care. And, you know, they did!" she explained. "Seeing my dad being so successful, that really inspired me to try it too."
Mallott hopes to fill four vans with pads and tampons, but she has thought of students who might feel embarrassed taking feminine hygiene products to school.
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"We're asking for straight up products, but we're also giving people the opportunity to bring in money," she said.
CUPE 543, which represents City of Windsor inside workers, is kicking in an added incentive for the schools. A cheque.
"The school that collects more products will win $500 to donate to a charity of choice," said Mallott, clarifying the charity will be chosen by the school's student social justice committee.
The drive started Tuesday and will continue until Thursday, February 28. After that, the pads and tampons will be donated to local agencies.
"It's the most sought out product by adults living in poverty, and not just women, but all people because you know they might have their kids who might struggle too," said Mallott.
