Days for Girls: Empowering Girls in Kenya to Stay in School
During her trip to Kenya with Youthlinc, Dr. Reena Gupta learned about Days for Girls, an organization that focuses on providing sustainable menstrual hygiene solutions to women and girls in need. As a medical mentor with Youthlinc, Dr. Gupta had been actively involved in humanitarian work both locally and internationally. After her impactful trip to Peru, she eagerly signed up for a mission in Nakuru, Kenya to support health goals in the community. Dr. Gupta was dedicated to empowering the people of Nakuru, especially focusing on women's health care challenges.
Barriers to Education
In Kenya, many young girls face a significant barrier to their education - the lack of access to menstrual products. This issue not only affects their physical well-being but also hinders their academic progress. Girls often miss 5-7 days of school each month due to the unavailability of proper menstrual supplies, leading to a disruption in their learning and causing them to fall behind their peers. For some, this setback can even result in dropping out of school altogether.
Days for Girls in Kenya
This is where Days for Girls has become a force for change. By providing menstrual hygiene kits that contain enough supplies for 2 years, this organization ensures that girls can attend school regularly without worrying about leaks or stains on their clothes. The impact of a simple $10 donation can keep a girl in school for years, breaking the cycle of missed opportunities and lost potential.
Beyond just distributing products, Days for Girls also focuses on education and awareness. Many girls in Kenya are not taught about menstrual health, leaving them unprepared and confused when their period arrives. Through workshops and sessions, DFG creates a safe space for girls to ask questions, receive information, and break the stigma surrounding menstruation. By empowering these girls with knowledge, they are better equipped to manage their periods with confidence and dignity.
What makes Days for Girls even more impactful is their commitment to supporting the local economy. By sourcing and producing products locally, the organization not only provides employment opportunities but also contributes to the economic growth of the community. This holistic approach ensures that the benefits of their work extend beyond just the recipients of the menstrual kits.
Empowering Youth, Together
For Center for Vocal Health, partnering with Days for Girls has been a rewarding experience. By supporting the mission of keeping girls in school and promoting menstrual health education, the center has played a vital role in empowering young girls in Kenya. Together, they are breaking down barriers, fostering empowerment, and creating a brighter future for girls who deserve every opportunity to succeed.
