A project born in the love, compassion, and desire to protect and provide hygiene products and resources to girls in Kenya
Before the onset of COVID, both the government and NGOs had programs in place to provide sanitary supplies to girls and women in need. However, as the pandemic persisted, these initiatives were halted, leaving many to grapple with this essential requirement. By September 2020, the consequences became glaringly apparent when over 120,000 school-aged girls became pregnant. The availability of sanitary supplies remains a crucial and unmet need, profoundly impacting the lives of these girls.
Lacking access to essential sanitary supplies and the financial means to procure them, these girls are put at an increased risk. The societal pressures of embarrassment, shame, and the potential for ridicule compel them to avoid school during their menstrual cycle, deepening their vulnerability, especially when alone at home. Misconceptions about sex and a fundamental lack of awareness about its risks compound the issue, leading some to trade sexual favors for necessary sanitary items.
In Kenya, prevailing cultural norms further erode the autonomy of young girls, as they’re often seen not as individuals with rights but as those expected to yield to demands.
Disturbingly, these cumulative factors have led to over 100,000 school-aged girls, including those as young as 12, falling pregnant. This tragedy has shattered the aspirations and hopes of many promising girls, pushing them into a realm of despair and diminishing their dreams of a brighter future.
After reopening their church in Nairobi, Kenya post-COVID, Susan and Robert Owade were approached by numerous women and girls facing a critical need for sanitary supplies. Deeply moved, Susan devised a design for a washable, reusable sanitary pad. She relayed the issue to Pam Clark, her mission work partner of 17 years. Together, Susan and Pam launched the POD Project on September 26, 2020, introducing sewing classes at the Owade’s church. Equipped with sewing machines, materials, supplies, and a dedicated trainer, these sessions not only addressed the sanitary concerns but also empowered participants with a valuable skill, benefitting both individuals and the wider community.
Since its inception, the Protecting Our Daughters (POD) project has provided 68,634 washable, reusable pads to 31,347 girls across 136 schools, 50 girls’ centers, and 16 tribal gatherings. Recognizing an added need for quality underwear, 34,317 pairs have also been distributed. Through the project, 8,973 girls have found faith, with the support of 2,450 Bibles distributed to nurture their spiritual growth.
In June 2023, Pam led a team of five women to Kenya, visiting six locations that benefited from POD. The team addressed critical challenges faced by the girls, including early sexual activity, early marriage, sexual abuse, harassment, rape, rejection, betrayal, and menstruation. Engaging with over 1,800 girls over six days, their goal was to foster open dialogue and provide factual insights on these significant issues. During these visits, the team also distributed 600 packets, each containing two pads and underwear.
Additionally, the team celebrated the achievements of women graduating from a two-year sewing course and facilitated a seminar on communication and conflict resolution at the Owade’s church. Owing to the project’s success, there have been requests for the POD team to return annually and expand their sessions into comprehensive seminars and workshops. To strategize further, Pam and Susan are scheduled to met in Kenya February 2024, envisioning the next phase for POD and its continued impact.
Donate and help support the girls in Kenya.
A packet includes two washable, reusable pads and one pair of quality underwear
Any donation amount is greatly appreciated! The cost per person of going to Kenya for 10-14 days is approximately $3,000.
Donations processed through the North Coast Church website.
The focus or purpose of this mission trip is to visit schools and girls centers, providing washable, reusable sanitary pads as well as speaking on topics that we have been asked by the schools to speak on from the basis of God’s love for them. We may also do some construction related work assisting with the finishing of the Owade church.
We will be driving 2 to 3 hours each way most every day, and then speaking for approximately two hours before returning to our retreat center. Each person on the team will participate in this speaking, which will include sharing your testimony in a relatable way with these girls.
A project born in the love, compassion, and desire to protect and provide hygiene products and resources to girls in Kenya.
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