“Menstruation is not a problem to be solved, but a natural bodily function to be respected.” ~ Amika George
Global period poverty is a pervasive (often overlooked) issue that affects countless girls across the world. Inability to access basic female hygiene products jeopardizes women’s physical and emotional wellbeing as well as their futures. The social stigma around menstruation in some cultures causes girls to view their periods as something to be ashamed of, therefore, they are deprived of essential education and materials.
As such, it is crucial that we highlight the efforts to surmount these obstacles and get girls the resources to which they are entitled. The Pad Project tackles menstrual inequity globally through education, media, and pad production and distribution efforts. The non-profit has distributed over 3 million pads across the U.S. and has educated over 37,000 people about menstrual health. Through their Ambassador Program alone, 250,000 products have been distributed with over 47 countries represented. At the grassroots level, The Pad Project has also developed pad-making machines in India and Sri Lanka, employing over 100 women internationally.
This organization’s holistic approach for confronting period poverty demonstrates the need for advocacy that blends both charity and justice-oriented efforts. There is so much to be learned from their mission and profound impact, and it is my hope that you will feel inspired both to support the project in any way you can and to pursue your own initiatives!
Please explore The Pad Project’s website and get involved! Learn, donate, become an ambassador – whatever you feel will empower this organization and all of the herspectives it bolsters.
Want to learn more about period poverty and the efforts to combat menstrual inequity? I will be publishing a blog post in the coming weeks dedicated to this topic, so keep an eye out! 👀
Herspectives 
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