At present, the flash floods across Pakistan have affected the lives of 30 million people nationwide and raised the death toll to 1,280. “The recent floods have forced victims to relocate and find safe shelter but unfortunately, periods do not stop with floods,” said Bushra Mahnoor and Anum Khalid, the founders of Mahwari Justice, a non-profit organization that focuses on collecting and organizing the distribution of underwear, sanitary pads and hygiene items to women and girls in flood-affected areas.
Here’s what to know about the sanitary relief campaign and how you can support:
Instagram @mahwarijustice22
The relief kits provided include a pack of sanitary pads, a bar of soap, and underwear, which costs Rs200 (Dhs3). With the support of funds through its online platforms and its GoFundMe page, the campaign has been able to deliver kits to at least 12,000 women across Balochistan, Siraiki Waseb Uthal, Lasbela, DI Khan, Tank, Rajanpur, Fazilpur, Hajipur, Layyah, Mirpurkhas, Kuda Bux, Mir Allah Bachayo, Sakaro, Nausharo Feroz, Rojhan, Haji Mora, Teekan, Dera Ismail Khan, Balheri, and many more affected villages.
“In these times of peril, everyone has joined hands, volunteers and helpers are working hard to reach through any means possible be it by boats even. We need your support to reach more flood-struck communities so that no woman can feel helpless in these times of catastrophe.,” said the founders. “No woman should suffer sickness and discomfort while struggling to find their way through this crisis. We hope to use more sustainable options for this purpose and are in the process of making handmade cloth pads through towel waste as well. “
Instagram @everydaypakistan
“In the next month, we hope to reach out to 50,000 more women in flood-affected areas. We are trying to break period taboos and actively working with volunteers to provide sanitary relief to women who are victims. Moreover, we are also trying to raise funds for the medicines for pregnant women, UTIs, and infections to send alongside our next donations.”
To support Mahwari Justice’s ongoing efforts in providing sanitary relief kits in Pakistan, click here.