For more information, please click https://www.gebirah.org/menstrual-support

Mission: 

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In the Gospel of Mark 5:25-34, we encounter a woman who had suffered from bleeding for twelve years. In her faith, she reached out to touch the edge of Jesus' cloak, believing even that simple act could bring healing—and it did. Jesus acknowledged her courage and said, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering."
 

This story resonates deeply with our mission. Just as this woman found healing and restoration, our project seeks to bring dignity and empowerment to women and girls facing the often-silent challenge of menstruation in marginalized communities.
 

Menstrual health is a critical yet often overlooked issue. Many women and girls lack access to proper education and affordable sanitary products, leading to health risks, stigma, and missed opportunities in education and employment. Our project addresses these challenges by providing menstrual health education and producing sustainable sanitary pads made from recycled fabric with the help of volunteers.
 

Through this initiative, we aim to not only meet practical needs but also restore a sense of dignity and empowerment to every woman and girl we serve. By promoting education and sustainability, we’re creating lasting change—one that uplifts women, preserves the environment, and strengthens communities.

Just as a small act of faith brought profound healing to one woman, this project aims to make a significant difference in the lives of many, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge to thrive with confidence and dignity.

The objectives of this project are focused on addressing the critical issues surrounding menstrual health, empowering women and girls, and fostering sustainability. These objectives align with the broader mission of improving health, dignity, and social equity for underserved communities. 

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1. Improve Menstrual Hygiene Practices 

• Description: Increase awareness and understanding of menstrual health and hygiene among women and girls. 

• Key Goals: 

• Educate women and girls about the menstrual cycle, hygiene practices, and the importance of proper care. 

• Provide training on the use, care, and benefits of reusable sanitary products. 

2. Address Period Poverty 

• Description: Provide affordable and sustainable access to menstrual hygiene products for underserved communities. 

• Key Goals: 

• Produce and distribute reusable sanitary pads made from recycled fabric. 

• Ensure that menstrual products reach marginalized populations such as refugee women and rural communities. 

3. Reduce Social Stigma and Promote Open Dialogue 

• Description: Normalize conversations around menstruation and dismantle the stigma associated with it. 

• Key Goals: 

• Conduct community awareness campaigns to promote positive perceptions of menstruation. 

• Encourage family discussions about menstrual health, fostering supportive environments. 

4. Empower Women and Girls 

• Description: Equip women and girls with the confidence, knowledge, and resources to manage their menstrual health. 

• Key Goals: 

• Build self-esteem by providing practical education and tools for menstrual management. 

• Train women and girls in the production of sustainable pads, offering skill-building opportunities. 

5. Promote Environmental Sustainability 

• Description: Reduce environmental impact through the adoption of reusable and eco-friendly menstrual products. 

• Key Goals: 

• Encourage the use of sustainable materials in sanitary pad production. 

• Educate communities about the environmental benefits of switching to reusable products. 

6. Create a Supportive Community Network 

• Description: Build peer-support groups and local partnerships to ensure the project’s long-term sustainability and impact. 

• Key Goals: 

• Establish peer groups to sustain menstrual health education and advocacy. 

• Partner with NGOs, schools, and local leaders to amplify the reach and effectiveness of the project. 

7. Foster Economic Empowerment 

• Description: Provide women with opportunities for skill development and income generation through the production and distribution of menstrual products. 

• Key Goals: 

• Train women in underserved communities to produce sanitary pads, enabling them to earn an income. 

• Develop a social enterprise model to ensure financial sustainability and scalability. 

8. Enhance School Attendance 

• Description: Ensure girls stay in school during their periods by providing them with the necessary knowledge and resources. 

• Key Goals: 

• Reduce absenteeism among schoolgirls by addressing menstrual health barriers. 

• Provide menstrual kits and hygiene education to school-aged girls.

Program Overview 

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1. Educational Workshops 

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Our educational workshops will cover topics such as menstrual health, nutrition during menstruation, coping with menstrual stigma, and emotional well-being. These workshops will be delivered both in person and online, allowing for flexibility in participation. 

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• Sessions: 

• Understanding the menstrual cycle and recognizing abnormalities. 

• Proper use and disposal of menstrual products. 

• Pain management, dietary support, and physical activity during menstruation. 

• Hygiene practices to prevent infections and support overall health. 

• Target Audience: 

Girls and women in underserved communities, including refugee populations and rural areas. 

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2. Sustainable Sanitary Pad Production 

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We will establish a production unit to manufacture sanitary pads made from recycled fabric. Volunteers will be trained to assist in the production process, creating a low-cost, environmentally friendly alternative to disposable pads. 

• Sourcing: 

Materials will be sourced from donors, local recycling centers and textile factories to minimize waste and encourage a circular economy. 

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3. Distribution and Community Engagement 

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The sanitary pads will be distributed through community centers, schools, and healthcare facilities. We will also partner with NGOs, local leaders, and influencers to ensure that the products reach the most vulnerable populations. 

• Awareness Campaigns: 

Community campaigns will focus on breaking down menstrual stigma and promoting open discussions about menstrual health. 

Expected Impact 

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By providing menstrual hygiene education and sustainable sanitary products, we aim to: 

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• Improve knowledge and self-confidence among women and girls in managing their menstrual health. 

• Reduce menstrual-related health complications, such as infections caused by poor hygiene. 

• Decrease environmental impact through the adoption of reusable sanitary products. 

• Foster supportive community networks that encourage ongoing education and open dialogue about menstruation. 

• Reduce menstrual stigma, leading to a more accepting and informed society. 

Get Involved

We are always looking for passionate individuals to join our cause. Whether your expertise lies in education, production, research, or advocacy—or if you simply want to lend a helping hand—there’s a role for everyone.

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If you have any questions or ideas, feel free to reach out to us. Together, we can make a meaningful impact in the lives of women and girls around the world.

Volunteer Opportunities: Key Roles and Responsibilities 

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To drive the success of this project, we are still looking to fill the following key roles: 

1. Production Coordinator 

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Role Summary: 

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The Production Coordinator will manage the production unit, ensuring that sanitary pads are made from high-quality recycled fabric and meet the needs of the community. 

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Key Responsibilities: 

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• Set up and maintain the production process. 

• Source recycled materials and manage supplier relationships. 

• Train volunteers in the production of sanitary pads. 

• Ensure product quality and monitor inventory. 

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Required Skills: 

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• Experience in production management, especially with textiles or sustainable products. 

• Organizational and logistical skills. 

• Ability to train and manage a team of volunteers. 

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2. Pad Production Volunteers 

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Role Summary: 

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Assist in the production of sanitary pads using recycled fabric. 

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Required Skills:

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Basic sewing or textile skills (training will be provided), attention to detail. 

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3. Volunteer Coordinator 

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Role Summary: 

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The Volunteer Coordinator will recruit, train, and manage volunteers for both the production and education aspects of the program. 

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Key Responsibilities: 

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• Recruit volunteers from the community. 

• Organize volunteer training sessions. 

• Manage volunteer schedules and ensure engagement. 

• Act as the point of contact for volunteers and ensure they are well-supported. 

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Required Skills: 

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• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. 

• Experience in volunteer management. 

• Organizational skills and the ability to motivate and engage volunteers. 

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4. Marketing, Communications & Social Media

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Role Summary: 

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Marketing & Communications will promote the project, its products, and its mission through various media channels. 

Promote the initiative on social media and assist with content creation. 

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Key Responsibilities: 

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• Develop and implement marketing strategies to raise awareness. 

• Manage social media accounts, websites, and promotional materials. 

• Social media management, digital marketing. 

• Organize fundraising events and online campaigns. 

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Required Skills: 

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• Experience in marketing and communications, particularly for nonprofits. 

• Strong social media management and content creation skills. 

• Knowledge of fundraising and donor engagement strategies. 

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5. Community Advocates 

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Role Summary: 

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Help promote the program within communities, reduce menstrual stigma, and organize outreach events. 

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Required Skills: 

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Public speaking, community engagement. 

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6. Fundraising Volunteers 

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Role Summary: 

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Support fundraising events and campaigns to help sustain the program. 

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Required Skills: :

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Event planning, donor relations. 

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Conclusion 

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By combining menstrual health education, sustainable sanitary pad production, and community engagement, this will help girls and women take control of their health while promoting environmental sustainability. With the support of volunteers and partners, we aim to create lasting change in the way menstruation is understood, discussed, and managed in underserved communities.