Charity
A portion of our profits goes to Days for Girls, a 501(c) (3), which provides reusable pads for girls all over the world. Their reusable kits can last up to 3 years which is the equivalent of 360+ disposable pads.
Around the world, girls are less likely to graduate from secondary school than boys. In fact, according to UNESCO worldwide, 131 million girls are out of school — and 100 million of those are girls of high school age. And while there are many reasons for this, periods play a major role.
In some cases, girls simply don’t have access to sanitary products; in others, they face discrimination and stigma during their periods; in others still, they don’t have educational resources to inform them about safe, sanitary hygiene practices. Reference
Here’s what is packed inside the drawstring bags/kits:
Two pairs of underwear: A crucial part of the DfG Kit is underwear, because after all if girls don’t have anywhere to put the pads, they can’t use them. The other elements, shields, and liners, can’t function without underwear, and we don’t ever want that to be a barrier for a girl in need.
Two shields: Think of these as a pad with wings. They are made from two pieces of cotton (with moisture-barrier fabric between to prevent leaks), and wings that fold around her underwear and snap in place. Our shields are made of beautiful, printed fabrics for comfort — and to hide stains. They have two pockets on either side of the shield that holds our liners in place. The pockets are deep enough for double or triple liners when she has a heavy flow.
Eight liners: These liners go in the shields and act as the “pad” part of the Kit. Our liners look like washcloths. That’s so girls can wash and hang them out to dry without any embarrassment. They are made from 100% cotton flannel so they’re washable with very little water and quick to dry in the sun.
Soap and washcloth: We add a few extras in her Kit, including a bar of soap for washing her pads, and a washcloth for cleansing her body. There’s no better feeling than a nice shower during your period. It makes you feel fresh, clean, and ready to take on the world. Girls who receive DfG Kits deserve that same feeling, but may not have access to these items. By including them in the Kit, we ensure that all girls can take care of themselves — and their liners.
Instructions: This is one of the most important aspects of the Kit! We provide a pictorial instruction sheet that shows how to use the shields and liners, as well as how to wash them. But that’s not all! On the backside, there is a menstrual chart to help track periods. This helps each user know when to expect her period, so she can bring her supplies with her.
Transport bag: All of the kits also include a transport bag that acts as a dirty laundry hamper as well as a washing machine. The bag, made of a moisture-proof fabric, is designed so she can discreetly carry her dirty liners back home or on her way to wash them.
It doesn’t fit in a bag, but we always include health education during our Kit distributions. It’s crucial that girls learn about their menstrual cycle, good washing practices, health, safety, and why being a woman is worth celebrating! Education is the key to creating long-lasting, sustainable change in communities and breaking down many of the barriers girls face. Our Kits are not complete without education!