The Pad Project

Reusable sanitary pads for a brighter future

The Devastating Impact of
Period Poverty

In many developing countries, girls face period poverty, or lack of access to affordable sanitary products. This forces them to miss school each month, hindering academic progress, eliminating educational opportunities, putting them at risk of sexual exploitation, and significantly limiting their futures.

Our solution is a sustainable and reusable sanitary pad that we designed specifically for developing countries. These washable pads are durable, easy to clean, and can last for years. By providing these pads, we empower girls to stay in school, break free from the cycle of poverty, and build brighter futures.

Breaking the cycle of exploitation

a woman & a group of girls receiving A woman & a group of girls smiling as they receive reusable sanitary pads in Sierra Leone

Period poverty forces girls in developing countries into 'sex for pads,' trading safety for sanitary supplies. This exploitation robs them of education and opportunity. We're fighting back with sustainable, reusable pads, giving girls the power to reclaim their futures.

Get Involved

A sewing machine & a green reusable sanitary pad

There are several ways to support The Pad Project, from sewing pads to donating underwear and fabric.

Join our community of volunteers! We handcraft our pads, and you can too, either individually or in a group. Learn more about the materials and simple steps to get started.

Colorful new fabric

Your unused fabric and sewing supplies can directly empower girls. Every yard of fabric and spool of thread helps us create sustainable sanitary pads, keeping girls in school.

3 pairs of new womens underwear

Underwear is crucial for girls to use our sustainable sanitary pads with dignity and comfort. Donate new underwear to help us provide a complete solution to period poverty.

Starter Kits

A pre-cut starter kit with enough fabric & supplies for 1 kit with a pattern template is available on request.

Download Our Pattern & Sewing Instructions

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Our Impact

  • Graphic of the world

    41

    Countries Reached

  • A graphic of a group of people

    40,394

    Individuals Impacted

  • Graphic of a sanitary pad

    80,788

    Pads Distributed

  • Graphic of a needle & thread to symbolize sewing

    115

    Active Sewing Groups