Sanitary Pad Distribution Program Empowers Girls in Sri Lanka

In an effort to promote female empowerment and address menstrual hygiene challenges, the YMCA of Pamunugama recently organized a two-day program in collaboration with St. George Scout Gild in Denmark. The program focused on distributing reusable sanitary pads and educating girls on their usage, while also imparting valuable lessons on good hygiene practices. The initiative was a resounding success, with 200 reusable sanitary pads being distributed across two schools in Sri Lanka.

On June 20, 2023, St. Antony's Vidyalaya in Alagollewa became the venue for the first program. The dedicated team from YMCA, along with the generous sponsorship from St. George Scout Gild in Denmark, ensured that 100 reusable sanitary pads were provided to the girls at St. Antony's Vidyalaya. This crucial step towards menstrual hygiene management was met with overwhelming support from the school's principal, staff, and students.

Continuing their efforts, the YMCA team extended the program to Ruwanweli National School in Horowpothana on June 21, 2023. An additional 100 reusable sanitary pads were distributed, further spreading awareness and empowering the girls in this rural area. The program at Ruwanweli National School was equally well-received, with the principal and staff lending their full support to make the initiative a success.

A key aspect of the program was the educational sessions conducted for the girls. These sessions not only taught them how to properly use reusable sanitary pads but also emphasized the importance of good hygiene practices. By imparting practical knowledge and guidance, the girls were equipped with the necessary tools to manage their menstrual health confidently and comfortably.

The YMCA of Pamunugama, would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Ms. Gitte Staehr for her invaluable coordination efforts. Her support and collaboration were instrumental in making this initiative possible, fostering an international partnership focused on improving the lives of girls in Sri Lanka.

Looking ahead, the success of the program will be closely monitored through follow-up assessments in the coming weeks. This evaluation will help gauge the impact of the initiative and provide insights for future endeavours. The YMCA remains committed to ensuring the continued support and empowerment of girls, as they strive to create a society that values and promotes menstrual hygiene and the well-being of women. Through such initiatives, we can break the barriers surrounding menstrual health and empower girls to reach their full potential, unencumbered by the challenges they face.