End Period Poverty in Rural Schools in Malawi

During this reporting period, our project has faced challenges in raising the minimum funds required to send to the foundation's account. However, we remain steadfast in our commitment to combat period poverty. Despite limited resources, we have continued our efforts by using our own funds to provide essential training for women in sewing reusable pads.

While our progress has been slower than anticipated, we are confident that, with additional support, we will be able to scale up our impact. Once we secure more funds, we plan to significantly increase our production of reusable pads, which will be distributed to girls in rural areas, providing them with a sustainable solution to period poverty.

We deeply appreciate the generosity of our donors, and we are incredibly grateful for your continued support as we strive to make a lasting difference in the lives of these girls and women. Your contributions, no matter the size, help us continue our work. We hope that, together, we can overcome the challenges and ultimately empower more girls to stay in school and thrive, free from the stigma and limitations imposed by period poverty. We are excited about the future and the possibility of scaling our impact with your support.

Thank you once again for your commitment to this vital cause.

Project Overview: During this reporting period, our project has faced challenges in raising the minimum funds required to send to the foundation's account. Nevertheless, we remain committed to our fight against period poverty. Through our own resources and network, and in collaboration with the Sewing Together organization from Kenya and our local partners in Malawi, we successfully conducted workshops on sewing reusable sanitary pads in March and April. These workshops benefited over 200 women and girls in Mzuzu and Lilongwe.

Workshops and Training: The workshops included comprehensive education on reproductive health, menstrual hygiene, and business basics. Participants received training in both hand and machine sewing techniques. Additionally, we received a donation of two sewing machines, which allowed us to establish a small tailoring workshop at our Regional Office in Lilongwe. In May 2024, we conducted a thirty-days training program on machine sewing for two participants. These participants will, in turn, be able to teach other women and girls.

Objectives and Future Plans: Our primary goal is to produce affordable reusable pads for local women. This initiative not only aims to combat period poverty but also to economically empower the participants. A portion of the pads will be distributed for free among girls in rural schools.

Acknowledgements: We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone for their continued support. Every donation has had a significant impact on the lives of women and girls. Your contributions are not just about financial aid; they keep girls at school and prevent them for child marriages; they restore dignity, independence, and the joy of womanhood. 

Thank you once again for your unwavering support.