In Zambia it’s the common cultural practice in both poor urban and remote village areas that girls stay home when they are on their period. This is because they don’t have a reliable product solution that they can afford. So to avoid the risk of social embarrassment – they simply stay home. Disposable products are not the solution because there is no garbage collection and the cost is an impossible barrier to overcome. A well made reusable product that replaces their traditional method is the best solution.

The 7th Grade Exam is a pivotal academic test in Zambia. When we started our program in 2014, the girls failed to pass the exam at more than 10% higher rate than boys. Based on our data, there is a real problem that can be measured. If a student (either girl or boy) doesn’t pass the 7th Grade Exams, they cannot go to Secondary School (what we call High School in the U.S.) and their academic career is over. There is no ‘remedial high school’ or back-up plan. They are done with school forever. We are working hard to close this gap.

Our Lusaka based sewing cooperative makes reusable feminine hygiene products (as well as school uniforms and soap). We call these our “Purposeful Products”. These moms, aunties, and grandmas making these items are the heroes of our story. Their work is impacting their community for the better. Through our program they are paid for their work so they do well by doing good.

In addition to sewing the pads and making the soap, they coordinate health class training and purse distributions with local teachers so girls can receive the items they need to manage their period. This is not a one-time dump and run effort, where girls get something and then in the future cannot get more. Our program is a long-term collaboration with the schools.

When girls receive a purse they take The Sew Powerful Pledge – and promise to stay in school all month if they receive a purse filled with supplies. We ask seamstresses around the world to help support the program by making the most amazing and beautiful purses - because the girls deserve the best. The purse is the perfect delivery method for the pads, soap, and underwear. You can also support the program financially and advocate for the program in your social network.

Together we really are Sew Powerful!

The purses you provide are used in local schools and clinics in Lusaka Zambia as part of Menstration Hygiene Management (MHM) programs. This simple gift – combined with re-usable sanitary pads and health information can make a tremendous difference in the lives of adolescent girls. Read about our Sew Powerful Purse Project here. Our ministry partners work hard to educate and inform the girls in their community so that they stay in school and grow in confidence and self-esteem. It really is Sew Powerful!