This year, Reach Lives took a significant step in addressing menstrual health barriers in India by installing a sanitary pad vending machine at an orphanage in Chamrajpet, Bengaluru. This initiative ensures secure, stigma-free access to menstrual hygiene products, a crucial move toward empowering vulnerable girls. The project was made possible thanks to the generosity of Ms. Jayalakshmi Bai, who donated the machine in loving memory of her mother.
Chamrajpet is home to several children supported by Reach Lives through our Reach Home program, which focuses on housing children in need and fostering their holistic development. This installation is the first of many such initiatives planned to improve access to menstrual hygiene resources across Bengaluru and beyond.
The Importance of Overcoming Menstrual Stigma in India
Menstrual health remains a deeply stigmatized issue in India, with many girls and women facing shame, exclusion, and inadequate access to proper hygiene products. These barriers often lead to severe consequences, including school absenteeism, reduced self-esteem, and long-term health risks. According to UNICEF, nearly 23% of girls in India drop out of school when they reach puberty due to the lack of menstrual hygiene facilities and awareness.
Stigma compounds this issue, silencing discussions and perpetuating misconceptions. Many girls are forced to manage menstruation in unsafe or undignified ways, which hinders their ability to participate fully in education and community life.
Access is the First Step
Access to menstrual hygiene products like sanitary pads is the cornerstone of breaking these barriers. By ensuring availability through initiatives like vending machines, we provide girls the tools they need to manage their periods with dignity and security. Access goes hand-in-hand with education, enabling girls to make informed choices about their health and well-being.
Expanding the Initiative
This installation in Chamrajpet is just the beginning. Reach Lives is committed to expanding this initiative to more communities, bringing similar resources to other orphanages, schools, and vulnerable neighborhoods. By fostering a supportive environment and combating stigma, we aim to make menstrual health a normalized and accessible aspect of every girl's life.
Together, with visionary supporters like Ms. Jayalakshmi Bai and the tireless work of our team, we are paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for all children. Learn more about our efforts through Reach Home and join us in making a difference.
Would you like to support or collaborate on our future initiatives? Contact us to learn how you can help.
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