Why is access to sanitary wear so important?

“When you fundraise for a pack of pads, you’re giving a young girl dignity for four years” – Mooniba Bhyat

Many of us never have to think about making it through a period without access to sanitary wear. However, girls in rural communities in South Africa often miss school each month or are forced to find alternatives to continue their schooling. Many young girls use socks, rags, plants, or newspapers as makeshift sanitary pads – which are uncomfortable, ineffective, and dangerous for their health!

According to UNESCO and UNICEF, not having access to sanitary wear has long-term negative consequences on women and communities. In South Africa, approximately 4 million girls can’t afford menstrual products every month. For many girls, it’s common to miss out on up to 3 months of school a year due to their period. This contributes to the dropout rate and continues the cycle of poverty.

After receiving the DARE Packs, girls have told us how the sanitary products have helped them attend school regularly and improved their academic results!

Since the inception of DARE, Mooniba has undertaken several fundraising drives. She’s successfully raised more than R2 million for skills development, pad cutting machines, and materials needed to make and distribute sanitary pads to young girls.

Why Are Reusable Sanitary Products Important?

Conventional sanitary pads and tampons are a huge burden on the environment. And a massive drain on the pocket!

Think about it….

If a cycle lasts for – on average – 5 days a month, and most women use 5 sanitary pads per day, that’s a whopping 1500 used sanitary pads over 5 years. For just one person! Tampons and pads are clogging up landfills and polluting our waterways and oceans – and they take over 800 years to decompose. Plus, the cost of these products means they are out of reach of so many women in South Africa.

DARE provides girls with a pack of 6 reusable, hand-sewn sanitary pads proudly made in South Africa. They can be used for up to 4 years, eliminating the need for single-use pads. They are eco-friendly, chemical-free, and gentle on the skin. These SABS-approved pads are made from natural fibres and are highly absorbent, helping avoid embarrassing leaks and ensuring girls feel confident to carry on with school during their cycle. Plus, the materials have funky patterns that young girls love wearing!

In areas with little or no access to water, girls are provided with and taught about using menstrual cups, which can last for up to ten years.