As Scouts, we embody the values of preparation, compassion, and community service. We’re here to discuss an important topic that bridges these values together: the Red Box Project and the significance of being prepared for every situation, including unexpected events like a girl’s first period during a camp. Let’s explore how we, as Scout Leaders, Scouts, and advocates for education, can make a difference.

The Red Box Project: Addressing Period Poverty:

In a previous blog post, we delved into the Red Box Project, a nationwide initiative striving to provide young girls with the resources they need during their periods. The project’s red boxes, filled with sanitary items, tights, and underwear, have been a beacon of support for girls who might otherwise miss out on vital education due to period poverty.

An Incident That Sparks Preparedness:

Recently, in our own troop, an incident during a Scout camp highlighted the importance of being prepared for a young girl’s first period away from home. One of our Scouts experienced her first period during the camp, catching her off guard without the necessary supplies. This situation prompted us to consider extending our preparedness beyond the typical first aid kit.

Scout Leader’s “Period Kit”: Beyond First Aid:

Just as we ensure we have a comprehensive first aid kit, it’s equally important to have a “Period Kit” for our troop. Girls’ periods can begin unexpectedly, and the camp environment is no exception. A period kit, stored alongside our first aid supplies, can be a game-changer. It’s a simple, yet essential, bag that holds everything a girl needs to manage her period while away from home.

Creating a Scout Leader’s “Period Kit”:

To ensure discretion and ease, the “Period Kit” should be compact yet capable. It should contain all the necessary items to handle a period with confidence. Learning from the concept of the Red Box Project, our kit can include sanitary products, spare underwear, tights, and any other essentials. The kit’s size should strike a balance between being easily portable and spacious enough to hold all the necessary supplies.

A Step Towards Empowerment:

By embracing the idea of a Scout Leader’s “Period Kit,” we not only empower young girls to face any situation confidently but also promote open discussions about periods. Breaking down taboos and stigmas is integral to the Red Box Project’s mission, and our preparedness contributes to this important cause.

Supporting Both the Red Box Project and Our Troop:

Our commitment to the Red Box Project remains steadfast. We’re not only advocates for its mission but also active contributors. By taking part in donation drives and supporting the initiative, we show solidarity with young girls across the country who deserve every opportunity for education and success.

Conclusion: Scouts Leading the Way:

As Scout Leaders, we’re called to guide, support, and empower. Incorporating a “Period Kit” into our camping essentials is a demonstration of these principles in action. Let’s stand united with the Red Box Project and take proactive steps to ensure that no girl misses out on valuable experiences because of period-related challenges. Together, we are Scouts leading the way towards a more inclusive and prepared future.

An increase of girls in my troop recently and an “incident” at the last Scout camp of 1 of the girl Scouts having her 1st period on camp and not having any kit to deal with this situation, maybe Scout Leader’s should also have a “Period kit” aswell as the mandatory First aid kit.

Do you take a “Red box” period kit whilst your camping?

A girls period can happen anywhere and having their 1st period whilst at Scout Camp could realistically happen. Having a period kit is one of those essential items that every girl should have. It only needs to be a small bag that contains what she needs to manage her period when she is not at home. Because as ladies know (I’ve sort advice from my wife on this), periods can start when least expected!

You will need to find a bag/box that is small enough to be handheld but large enough to hold everything she’ll need and also discreet that won’t embass the girls when they ask for the “Red Box” as it’s known.

The box or bag needs to be small enough to be discrete but large enough to use without spilling the contents on the floor and robust enough to get knocked around in the camping equipment storage box.