SHE is Changing Lives One Maxi Pad at a Time

Sorry boys, we are talking girl stuff today. But if you are interested in changing the life of a girl or woman in developing countries- read on.

I had a moment of ‘sheepishness’ when I read about SHE (Sustainable Health Enterprises). Many times when I have had my menstrual period I have joked about staying home because of the pain or how crappy I felt. Never did I think about mixing work because I would not have access to a basic necessity- maxi pads. All over the world girls and women are missing work because they do not have access to this single item. For some of these women, it may not even be access that is the problem, the cost of a single package ($2.25) can cost more than a days wages. They often attempt to rectify the problem with bark, mud or rags… but this does not cut it either. This also can cause other hygiene problems.

The brilliant group of SHE of course have figured out a way to help with this problem. They have developed the SHE LaunchPad that contains absorbent material derived from argo-waste (banana fibers). The pad is also made without the use of chemicals or super absorbent polymers and the final cost for each product is 5 cents per pad. the goodness of the project does not stop there though, SHE is working with the community to obtain the banana fibers from the community and helping women become entrepreneurs with education and other resources.

So let’s not stop here… any campaign can always use a little love, or at least help in spreading the word. Here are 4 ways for you to get involved.

1. Give $$$. Support SHE.
2. Break the silence and go viral — share the SHE28 campaign video with everyone you know!
3. Get the word out – tell your friends to support SHE on Twitter – donate your voice (link to Thunderclap)
4. Follow SHE on its website and blog or find them on Twitter and Facebook.

Well there you have it. I don’t think I ever imagined that I would be talking about maxipads for Sweet Thursday… but then again, why not?

**Don’t forget if you want to nominate someone for Sweet Thursday you can let us know through our contact form.**