Across Kolkata, Angul, and Margherita, The We Foundation’s menstrual health initiatives have created a powerful impact, bridging the gap between awareness and action.
- In Kolkata, over 5,000 women were reached through education and resource distribution, while 80 advocates inspired their communities to adopt healthier menstrual practices.
- In Angul, 880 women received sanitary kits and the knowledge to break cultural barriers around menstruation.
- In Margherita, 1,400 women were empowered with safe menstrual products and practical guidance, transforming their approach to hygiene.
These programs are built on TWF’s pillars of research, health, partnerships, and employment. By focusing on community-driven solutions, the initiatives have tackled health risks, reduced stigma, and created long-term pathways for empowerment.
As TWF aims to provide menstrual hygiene solutions to over 10 lakh women by 2030, these localized efforts serve as a model for sustainable change. Together, we are building a future where every woman in India can manage menstruation safely, with dignity, and without compromising her potential.
Margherita, Assam: Project Atmashakti – A New Era of Menstrual Hygiene
In Margherita, Assam, poor menstrual hygiene practices had long been a source of infections, discomfort, and social stigma for women and girls. Using makeshift alternatives like old rags or newspapers not only jeopardized their health but also hindered their ability to lead productive lives. In response, TWF launched Project Atmashakti in partnership with Upper Assam Petro Coke Private Limited, Margherita Municipality, and DAY-NULM Assam to revolutionize menstrual hygiene practices in the region.
From August 16th to 18th, 2023, TWF conducted a comprehensive program at The India Club in Margherita, reaching 1,400 women and adolescent girls. Participants received high-quality sanitary napkin kits and attended workshops that emphasized the importance of safe menstrual practices. These sessions also addressed the broader cultural barriers that perpetuate silence around menstruation, encouraging women and girls to discuss and share their experiences openly.
The initiative inspired a transformative behavioral change, allowing women to manage their periods with dignity and without interruptions to their daily lives. Women who once relied on unsafe methods now have the resources and knowledge to prioritize their health, leading to better reproductive and overall well-being.