Let's keep girls in school

The St. Andrews Presbyterian Church’s Women’s Association has a very active sewing group consisting of 12 members. They mend and sew a variety of items for local, national and international charities. In January of 2018, the group made contact with our executive director, Tanya Weaver, and they have been a part of our mission ever since.

The Women's Association has a deep connection with this project to help empower women through continuing education.  Too often girls in Africa must cease their education due to their growth into womanhood.  How can women become more empowered and self sufficient if they are not able to continue their studies just because there is no way for them to remain clean in the school setting during their menstrual cycle?

The sewing group is assisting in this phase of Tanya’s work by replacing pebbles, corncobs or dung used as some of the absorbent materials used during girls’ periods with double sided, sturdy flannel pads. These liners are washable and are made to last for up to three years.  Each girl receives eight liners to fold into a waterproof shield. Colorful cotton, draw-string bags that the girls can carry to school hold an additional shield, a washcloth, soap, panties and instructions on how to use the kit.  Two plastic bags are also included for additional hygiene purposes. 

Over the past 18 months, the sewing group has made more than 3,000 liners with the goal of an infinity number!  The sewing group knows that it requires much work to help empower young women.  Education is one of the most powerful tools to achieve this goal.  Thank you, ladies, you truly are making a difference!

Everyone here at the American Foundation for Children with AIDS, and our partners in Africa. thank you for your continued support of this important project.  If you would like to learn even more about this project and others, please contact Tanya Weaver at tweaver@AFCAids.org.