It’s been five years since Kendelle encountered a pivotal experience that would change lives. Things have evolved since that Tuesday night, following that Midnight Run into Manhattan. Kendelle was only 17, a college Freshman in Westchester County. Stepping off the bus, the group witnessed those wishing for desired items, gathering around them, in hopes of sandwiches and small comforters. A woman quickly approached Elle and requested that she guard her cherished belongings so she can get into line. Kendelle approached “Margaret's” home. This home was a dilapidated grafiitied cardboard box. Its contents included an aged photo of Margaret’s daughter, a few candy wrappers, and most disturbing were a few used sanitary napkins and other items with spots of blood on them which were being used as pads, over again. Kendelle was in shock, momentarily, then realization set in. This is truth. This is what women are doing to resolve their flow. Their so-called “friend” was not being cared for in any health or well-ness fashion. THIS IS WRONG.
It was decided immediately via Kendelle to begin with a type of fundraiser where a team could collect feminine hygiene products and then distribute them to the homeless and low-income women. Their ages range(d) from nine years young to 50’s+ years old. A Pad-emonium Drive was planned. Kendelle named it Pad-emonium because she hoped to see a Pandamonium tier of feminine hygiene products for women in need. It was to be Event where people could drop in and drop off products. But where to hold this Event? Kendelle shortly after stepped into a coffee shop and a man was near-by awaiting his order. He wore a WWJD pin. Kendelle thought for a brief moment. When she arrived back home, Kendelle grinned and announced to her new team of family and a couple of friends, “We are holding a Pad-emonium Drive at the Church in the parking lot.” And Pad-emonium began that Spring. The community welcomed the idea and now Pad-emonium just celebrated its 5th year.
The radio stations, a TV channel, and even Aspiring magazine mentioned her cause the past couple of years, but Kendelle truly relies on word of mouth, a small FB page called Pad-emonium,CT and mostly, by Faith. Delivering Dignity is the motto and Kendelle takes care of this drive once a year, however, products are Flowing in every month. Kendelle assists a local Ministry in CT., various Shelters, and the Homeless to this day in NYC. Perhaps someday Pad-emonium will become a Non-Profit, but for now, they collect and distribute.
Thanks to so much support, women have necessities and as we all know, health and well-ness is so important. We all think of donating clothing, food, blankets, but this is an imperative need. So, thanks to you, Kendelle, a Forensic Counseling grad student now, who makes a difference. You are inspirational and kind. And we all need kindness! The best thing is, she just does what she does and never wishes nor expects recognition. It is just something Kendelle was meant to do, or as she says, called to do. It's her path. May her journey to help others continue and grow. It shows us that when you see something, step up. All things are possible.
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