Empowering Women with Menstrual Health Management

by The Desai Foundation
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Empowering Women with Menstrual Health Management
Empowering Women with Menstrual Health Management
Empowering Women with Menstrual Health Management

Project Report | Apr 17, 2024
Empowering Women with Menstrual Health Management

By Amber Toth | Grant Writer

Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) Program
Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) Program

The Asani Sanitary Napkin Program, led by the Desai Foundation, has significantly improved menstrual health management (MHM) in rural India. This initiative, rooted in community empowerment, not only addresses the challenges surrounding menstruation but also creates livelihood opportunities for women and girls. 

In rural India, menstrual hygiene remains a pressing issue, impacting women's health, education, and empowerment. Societal taboos and limited access to menstrual products exacerbate these challenges, perpetuating gender inequalities. The Desai Foundation recognizes the urgent need to address these barriers, as approximately 23% of adolescent girls drop out of school due to menstruation-related issues, while only 36% of menstruating women have access to sanitary pads.

Through the Asani Sanitary Napkin Program, the Desai Foundation produces biodegradable sanitary napkins and conducts extensive menstrual health awareness campaigns. By engaging community members, including men and boys, we aim to destigmatize menstruation and promote hygiene practices. Additionally, the program offers income-generating opportunities for women, contributing to their economic empowerment and fostering financial independence.

In the first 2 months of 2024, the Desai Foundation's Asani Sanitary Napkin Program has achieved remarkable milestones:

  • 70 women have been empowered through training in Asani Production, equipping them with valuable skills to contribute to the production of biodegradable sanitary napkins.
  • A total of 1,113 women have been trained as Asani Distributors, enabling them to become advocates for menstrual health within their communities and providing them with income-generating opportunities.
  • 62,551 women have embraced the use of Asani Sanitary Napkins, ensuring access to safe and hygienic menstrual products that are also environmentally sustainable.
  • Through the distribution efforts, 33,320 Asani Pads have been provided free of charge to women in need, removing financial barriers to menstrual hygiene and promoting inclusivity.
  • 90,057 individuals have been reached and educated through Menstrual Hygiene Awareness Camps, fostering a supportive environment and breaking down societal taboos surrounding menstruation.

Looking ahead, the Desai Foundation envisions expanding its reach to impact millions more lives. This entails scaling up production to meet the growing demand for sanitary napkins, expanding educational programs to promote health awareness and financial independence, and strengthening community engagement to ensure sustained progress in menstrual health management.

Through the support of our generous donors, the Asani Sanitary Napkin Program continues to make meaningful strides toward menstrual equity and women's empowerment in rural India. 

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to this cause.

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Organization Information

The Desai Foundation

Location: Woburn, MA - USA
Website:
Facebook: Facebook Page
Twitter: @DesaiFoundation
Project Leader:
Manoj Panda
Woburn , MA United States
$602 raised of $50,000 goal
 
7 donations
$49,398 to go
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