About Days for girls international
Days for Girls International: Advancing Menstrual Equity, Health, Dignity and Opportunity for All
Days for Girls International is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to advancing menstrual equity, health, dignity and opportunity for all. The organization was founded in 2008 by Celeste Mergens who was inspired by the plight of young girls in Kenya who were missing school because they did not have access to menstrual products.
The mission of Days for Girls is to create a world where every woman and girl has access to quality sustainable menstrual care and education. The organization believes that menstruation should not be a barrier to education or opportunity. They work towards this goal by providing sustainable menstrual solutions and health education programs.
Days for Girls has grown significantly since its inception in 2008. Today, the organization operates in over 144 countries around the world with more than 1 million women and girls impacted by their programs. Their work has been recognized globally with numerous awards including being named as one of Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies in Social Good.
Sustainable Menstrual Solutions
One of the core focuses of Days for Girls is providing sustainable menstrual solutions that are both environmentally friendly and cost-effective. The organization produces reusable cloth pads that can last up to three years with proper care. These pads are made from high-quality materials such as organic cotton flannel which makes them comfortable, absorbent, leak-proof and easy-to-use.
In addition to producing reusable cloth pads, Days for Girls also provides menstrual cups which are an eco-friendly alternative to disposable tampons or pads. Menstrual cups can last up to ten years with proper care making them an affordable option over time.
Health Education Programs
Days for Girls recognizes that access to quality health education is essential when it comes to breaking down barriers related to menstruation. They provide comprehensive health education programs that cover topics such as reproductive anatomy, hygiene practices during menstruation cycles as well as sexual health information.
Their educational programs are designed specifically with young girls in mind so they can learn about their bodies without feeling ashamed or embarrassed about their periods. This approach helps break down cultural taboos surrounding menstruation while empowering young girls with knowledge about their bodies.
Impact on Communities
The impact of Days For Girl's work extends beyond just providing sustainable menstrual solutions or educational programs; it also creates economic opportunities within communities where they operate through training local women on how produce reusable cloth pads locally using locally sourced materials thus creating jobs while addressing local needs at the same time .
By working closely with community leaders , schools , healthcare providers , NGOs among others , Days For Girl's interventions have led increased school attendance rates among adolescent girls leading improved academic performance . In addition , there has been increased awareness on reproductive rights leading reduced cases early marriages & pregnancies .
Conclusion
In conclusion,Days For Girl's International continues its mission towards advancing menstrual equity through provision of sustainable sanitary products & comprehensive reproductive health information . Their innovative approach towards addressing this issue has seen them gain global recognition while impacting millions across different continents . With continued support from donors & partners alike ,they will continue transforming periods into pathways thus creating opportunities & improving lives across different communities worldwide .