Days for Girls

Days for Girls logo 2018

Days for Girls is an international non-profit organization dedicated to increasing access to menstrual care and education by developing global partnerships, cultivating social enterprises, mobilizing volunteers, and innovating sustainable solutions that shatter stigmas and limitations for women and girls. Founded in 2008 by Celeste Mergens, the organization has reached over one million women and girls in more than 125 countries with durable, high-quality menstrual care solutions and health education.

History

Days for Girls was founded in response to a discovery made by Celeste Mergens while she was working with a family foundation in Kenya, assisting an orphanage in the outskirts of Nairobi. Mergens learned that the girls at the orphanage were facing significant challenges in managing their menstrual periods, with many lacking access to sanitary products, leading to missed days from school and other activities. This realization prompted Mergens to design a reusable menstrual pad and to establish an organization that could address the menstrual equity gap on a global scale.

Mission and Vision

The mission of Days for Girls is to create a world with dignity, health, and opportunity for all, through access to lasting feminine hygiene solutions. Their vision encompasses a world where menstruation is no longer a source of shame and taboo, but rather a time for empowerment and education.

Programs and Impact

Days for Girls operates through several key programs:

• International Chapters and Teams: Volunteers around the world sew and assemble the Days for Girls Kit, a patented reusable menstrual pad and holder system that can last up to three years.
• Enterprise Program: This program empowers women by training them to produce and sell Days for Girls Kits within their own communities, fostering local economies and ensuring sustainable access to menstrual care products.
• Education: Days for Girls provides comprehensive education on menstrual health management, sexual and reproductive health, and rights to girls, boys, and communities worldwide.
• Advocacy: The organization advocates for menstrual equity and the breaking down of stigmas and barriers that girls and women face due to menstruation.

Days for Girls Kit

The Days for Girls Kit is a reusable menstrual pad system designed for ease of use, comfort, and durability. Each kit includes:

• 2 waterproof shields
• 8 absorbent liners
• 1 carrying pouch
• 1 bar of soap
• 1 washcloth
• 2 pairs of underwear
• 1 visual instruction sheet

The design of the kit takes into consideration cultural sensitivities, practicality, and environmental impact, making it a revolutionary solution for menstrual management.

Challenges and Controversies

While Days for Girls has been widely praised for its innovative approach and global impact, the organization and the broader menstrual equity movement face challenges. These include cultural stigmas, funding limitations, and the need for more comprehensive education on menstrual health and hygiene.

See Also

• Menstrual cycle
• Menstrual hygiene management
• Women's health
• Sustainable development goals

Days for Girls Resources
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