Menstrual Health and Education

At UREEP, we are committed to addressing one of the most significant barriers to education for young girls: menstrual health. Many girls in Uganda face stigma, isolation, and disruptions to their education due to the lack of access to menstrual hygiene products and the cultural taboos surrounding menstruation. To combat this, UREEP will implement a comprehensive Menstrual Health and Education program aimed at empowering girls, ensuring access to sanitary products, and fostering open dialogue about menstrual health.

1. Distribution of Sanitary Pads and Hygiene Products

A critical component of this initiative is the distribution of sanitary pads and hygiene products to school-aged girls. Many girls in rural and underserved communities lack access to affordable and reliable menstrual hygiene products, forcing them to miss school during their menstrual cycles. UREEP will ensure that every girl in our partner schools, shelters, and safe houses has consistent access to these essential products.

• Needs Assessments: To identify the specific needs of each community, UREEP will conduct thorough needs assessments in collaboration with local schools, shelters, and community leaders. This will allow us to understand the volume and type of products required to meet the needs of young girls in various regions.
• Product Distribution Points: We will establish distribution points within schools, shelters, and safe houses, making sanitary pads and hygiene products easily accessible. These points will be discreet, allowing girls to collect what they need without fear of embarrassment or stigma.
• Product Dispensers: In locations where feasible, we will install sanitary pad dispensers to ensure that girls have continuous and convenient access to pads. These dispensers will be regularly stocked and monitored to meet the ongoing needs of the girls.

2. Bulk Purchasing and Sustainable Supply Chains

In addition to relying on donations, UREEP will establish bulk purchasing agreements with manufacturers of sanitary pads and hygiene products. By negotiating lower prices for bulk orders, we can secure a steady and sustainable supply of high-quality products for distribution. This approach ensures that girls have uninterrupted access to the resources they need throughout the school year.

• Partnerships with Manufacturers: We will partner with both local and international manufacturers to source eco-friendly, cost-effective sanitary pads. These partnerships will help reduce the financial burden on the organization while ensuring consistent access to menstrual hygiene products.
• Donations: In parallel, UREEP will continue to accept donations of sanitary products and related hygiene items from individual donors, corporations, and charitable organizations. These donations will supplement our bulk purchasing efforts and allow us to reach more girls across Uganda.

3. Menstrual Health Education and Awareness

Beyond providing access to products, UREEP is committed to breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation. We will develop and implement educational programs designed to foster a deeper understanding of menstrual health and to combat the social taboos and discrimination that many girls face.

• Comprehensive Educational Programs: UREEP will conduct menstrual health education workshops in schools, shelters, and community centers. These programs will cover topics such as the menstrual cycle, proper hygiene practices, and the importance of breaking the myths and misconceptions surrounding menstruation. The goal is to normalize conversations about menstrual health and empower girls to feel confident and informed about their bodies.
• Engaging Boys and the Broader Community: To create a more supportive environment for girls, our educational programs will also target boys, parents, and community leaders. By fostering open dialogue and raising awareness among all community members, we aim to reduce the stigma and isolation that often accompany menstruation.
• Peer Mentorship Programs: UREEP will establish peer mentorship programs, where older students or trained peer educators can lead discussions and provide guidance to younger girls about menstrual health. These peer-led initiatives will help build trust and create a safe space for girls to ask questions and share their experiences.