The COVID-19 pandemic has had far-reaching impacts on every aspect of society, with women and girls in vulnerable communities bearing some of the heaviest burdens. Beyond the health crisis, the pandemic has exacerbated economic challenges, disrupted education, and led to a significant increase in poverty. For many women and girls, these challenges were compounded by the struggle to access basic necessities like sanitary products, which are essential for maintaining dignity and health. Recognizing this urgent need, CWAM Foundation launched a crucial initiative to support these women and girls, ensuring that their dignity was upheld even in the face of unprecedented adversity.
The Challenge: Periods Don’t Stop for Pandemics
As the pandemic unfolded, it quickly became clear that many families in Kenya, especially those living in informal settlements and rural areas, were struggling to make ends meet. With incomes dwindling and priorities shifting to basic survival, sanitary products became a luxury that many could no longer afford. This situation placed women and girls in an incredibly vulnerable position, forcing them to choose between purchasing food or sanitary pads, a choice that no one should have to make.
The inability to access sanitary products leads to a host of issues. Girls may be forced to miss school during their periods, increasing the risk of them falling behind academically or even dropping out altogether. Women may experience a loss of dignity, isolation, and increased health risks as they resort to using unhygienic alternatives. These challenges highlight the importance of addressing menstrual health as a fundamental aspect of public health, particularly during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
CWAM Foundation’s Response: A Lifeline for Women and Girls
In response to this growing crisis, CWAM Foundation stepped up to provide much-needed support to women and girls in Nairobi’s slums and other affected areas. Through our “Maintaining Women’s Dignity During COVID-19” initiative, we mobilized resources, rallied support from our partners, and launched a campaign to distribute sanitary pads to those most in need. Our goal was simple: to ensure that no woman or girl would have to suffer the indignity of being unable to manage her period due to the pandemic.
From the outset, our initiative was met with overwhelming support from the community, partners, and well-wishers who understood the importance of this cause. With their help, we were able to distribute sanitary pads to over 700 women and girls by June 2020. But our efforts didn’t stop there. We also provided essential hygiene products, health education, and emotional support to help women and girls navigate the challenges of the pandemic with dignity.
Beyond Distribution: Empowering Women and Building Resilience
While the distribution of sanitary pads was a critical aspect of our initiative, CWAM Foundation also recognized the need to address the broader challenges facing women and girls during the pandemic. To this end, we incorporated additional activities aimed at empowering women and building resilience within the community.
One such activity was the provision of health education. We organized workshops and small group sessions where women and girls could learn about menstrual health, hygiene practices, and the importance of self-care during these trying times. These sessions were not only informative but also provided a safe space for women to share their experiences, challenges, and coping strategies. By fostering a sense of community and mutual support, we helped to alleviate the isolation that many were feeling during the lockdowns.
We also worked to connect women and girls with other resources and services that could support them during the pandemic. This included information on accessing healthcare, financial assistance, and other community support services. By providing these resources, CWAM Foundation aimed to empower women to take control of their health and well-being, even in the face of adversity.
The Impact: Restoring Dignity and Hope
The impact of our “Maintaining Women’s Dignity During COVID-19” initiative has been profound. For the women and girls who received support, the sanitary pads were more than just a product—they were a lifeline that allowed them to maintain their dignity, health, and confidence during one of the most challenging periods of their lives. The initiative also served as a powerful reminder of the importance of community solidarity and the impact that targeted, compassionate interventions can have on those most in need.
Moreover, the initiative has helped to raise awareness about menstrual health and hygiene, bringing it to the forefront of public health discussions in the context of COVID-19. By highlighting the issue, CWAM Foundation has contributed to breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation and advocating for menstrual health as a fundamental right for all women and girls.
Looking Forward: A Continued Commitment to Women’s Empowerment
As the world continues to grapple with the effects of the pandemic, CWAM Foundation remains committed to supporting women and girls in vulnerable communities. The “Maintaining Women’s Dignity During COVID-19” initiative was just one of many steps we are taking to empower women, promote gender equality, and ensure that all individuals have access to the resources they need to live with dignity and respect.
We are dedicated to continuing this work, expanding our reach, and advocating for policies that prioritize the health and well-being of women and girls. Through ongoing partnerships, community engagement, and innovative solutions, CWAM Foundation will keep fighting for a world where every woman and girl can thrive, regardless of the challenges they face.
In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has been a test of resilience for communities around the world. CWAM Foundation’s response through the “Maintaining Women’s Dignity During COVID-19” initiative is a testament to our unwavering commitment to standing with the most vulnerable, ensuring that dignity is upheld, and that no one is left behind. As we move forward, we invite others to join us in this mission, to support our work, and to help us build a brighter, more equitable future for all.