Thank you to all the donors for this project. The project is fully supported and the funds have been dispersed and 2 sewing machines are on the way. !

Coordinated by Kasia Janus in the US and the MAAPFoundation and

Kasese Diocese Health Director in Uganda Pilot Schools

“My goal is raising a total $1000 to start this pilot project benefiting TWO Kasese primary schools, yes TWO.  I am taking a leap of faith to start with two schools rather than one, but I know the need is great and over time, hopefully, we can expand our project to other schools that may benefit from the success of this pilot projects.  The donations will finance local purchase of fabric and two sewing machines to start the project.

This project ties with my old school, Our Lady of the Wayside and community in Arlington Heights, Illinois.  Two months ago, I had the honor to speak at MAAPF Thanksgiving Storytelling event explaining how the community made an impact to our family and how the simple acts of kindness, empathy, and encouragement created an underlying power for us to keep going, even though we didn’t know how at the time.  

Learning about what MAAPFoundation has done so since 2013 in Uganda inspired me to continue to reach out and offer to help the foundation’s mission. When I heard and read about how girls drop out of schools in the Ugandan regions because of the lack of affordable sanitary pads, this story  broke my heart.  Every person, regardless of gender, should have the right and opportunity to go to school, no matter what. The girls in Kasese and throughout Uganda, are typically unable to afford the pads and are often teased as they begin menstruating. Many times, girls would stay home, missing several days of school, which over time leads to poor performances or dropping out of school. Our project can make a difference and support the future of these girls.”

Project Details: 

Kasia as project liaison/coordinator will work with Sister Marcelline and the Kasese Diocese Healthcare to:

 a.     Train girls to make re-usable sanitary pads (provide materials)

b.     Girls make a pad for themselves, and then make two more to sell

c.     Older girls train the young girls to continue the project – create a workshop (young and old). The goal – to continue to make these reusable pads to have a supply in the local store which will help supply for more materials, empower the girls, and earn income for these girls (learning a new trade).

Note:

This project originated in Pallisa Uganda, however because Sr Scovia (coordinator) was transferred the project was suspended. Sr Marcelline has requested the pilot project be transferred to Kasese Uganda schools.