What is The Pachamama Project?
The Pachamama Project is a volunteer-run, not-for-profit organization making and distributing reusable sanitary pads to refugees around the world.
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The Pachamama team has a mission to combat period poverty in refugee crises and make sure having a period is not yet another challenge for these vulnerable people.
Photo Credit: The Pachamama Project
What is Period Poverty?
Period poverty is the lack of availability and access to sanitary products, normally due to financial constraints. This causes many women to resort to using scraps of tissue or even socks which can lead to infections.
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Period poverty is one of the most prevalent health issues facing women globally that has worsened due to the pandemic. According to Days for Girls, over 500 million women and girls, nearly 25% of all menstruators, experience "period poverty". Over 500 million women do not have access to feminine hygiene products.
Photo Credit: The Pachamama Project
Who Formed The Pachamama Project?
The Pachamama Project was formed by Bristol University student, Ella Lambert (from Essex), during the Covid lockdown. She wanted to make a positive impact on the world, and she and her university friend, Oliwia Geisler (from Poland), got to work collecting fabric from the local community, learning how to sew and recruiting volunteers.
Ella Lambert
Oliwia Geisler
Where Do The Pacha Pads Go?
Photo Credit: The Pachamama Project
Pacha Pads, which are handmade, reusable cloth sanitary pads, are donated to refugee women and girls dealing with period poverty. Since the start of the Pachamama Project over a year ago, the organization has made and donated over 29,000 Pacha Pads, supporting over 2,200 women and girls.
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The Pachamama Project is currently supporting refugees in six countries: Greece, Lebanon, Syria, Turkey, UK and US)
How Can I Help The Pachamama Project?
The Pachamama Project is volunteer-driven and would love for more people, groups and organizations to get involved! Simply reach out to learn more if you are interested in sewing Pacha Pads.
Can't sew? No problem! If you would like to contribute to this amazing social cause, you may also make a donation to help enable The Pachamama Project to continue to help refugee women and girls in need and make a positive, meaningful impact on the world.
