‘Making change one pad at a time’ is the belief held by Sophie and Maya, both pad-makers at Agatha Amani House, a partner of ours and a refuge for women and children who have suffered domestic and sexual violence. Agatha Amani House has set up the Eco Comfy Pad project with our support because the potential of reusable and washable pads for the most needy girls and women fits with so many of their values and objectives.
After training as a resident, Sophie was hired by the project where she can now earn an income and look after herself and two children. She is dedicated to the project as it reflects her deep care for the environment and has a tangible impact. She says “I found joy in the process of making each pad, knowing it would be re-used multiple times, hence reducing cost and helping a vulnerable girl’. She witnessed first hand the impact it has on communities. ‘Distributing the pads to women in need was an impactful moment’, she recalls. ‘The gratitude and relief on their faces reinforced the importance of initiatives like these in promoting menstrual hygiene and empowerment.’
Maya recognises the challenges she faced. Before the project, her parents struggled to afford period pads every month, causing stress and discomfort, particularly during the school day. ‘It can lead to feelings of embarrassment, stigma, anxiety about leaks or odours, and even social isolation during menstruation”, Maya says. Also, without proper menstrual hygiene products, girls may resort to unsafe alternatives like using old clothes or tissues, increasing the risk of infections and other health issues.However, Maya’s experience took a positive turn with the introduction of the Eco Comfy Pads. These reusable pads not only provided a comfortable and reliable menstrual hygiene solution but also alleviated the financial strain on her family. “They are so comfortable to use, and I like that they are reusable, and I now have uninterrupted access to essential menstrual products” she expresses with a sense of relief.
Both Sophie’s and Maya’s stories serve as a testament to the transformative power of access to quality menstrual products and education in creating a brighter, more equitable future for girls worldwide. Indeed,‘making change one pad at a time’