Empowering Girls
Transforming Futures
We believe every girl deserves the opportunity to learn, thrive, and reach her full potential. Our project is dedicated to removing barriers to education by providing sustainable menstrual hygiene solutions.
Our mission:
Provide Dignity & Opportunity
We supply washable, reusable cloth menstrual pads to girls who lack access to reliable hygiene products, helping them attend school with confidence and consistency.
Foster Independence & Skills
We empower girls and women to create their own menstrual pads by providing sewing machines, materials, and training — equipping them with valuable skills for life.
Your support means a lot!
Could you help us by donating any of these items?
Plain flannel: grey, beige, or white. | Print flannel: any pattern or print | Quilt batting: 100% or 90% cotton | Gently used or new mattress pad (not waterproof)
Together, we’re creating brighter futures — one pad, one girl, one community at a time.
How we make a difference
In the United States
Rotarians and friends come together to sew pads and send them to girls in need around the world. Sewing together is not only impactful — it’s also fun! Currently, groups are meeting in Bloomington, Mahomet, and Washington, Illinois, building community while making a difference.
Around the Globe
Internationally, Rotarians and friends support pad-making projects by funding sewing machines, materials, and training to help local women get started. Since 2020, Rotarians have made and distributed over 2,000 washable, reusable pads to girls and women in Kenya, Mexico, Uganda, Senegal, Zambia, The Gambia, Haiti, India, Ghana and Nicaragua.
A lasting, global impact
We have also fostered multiple pad-sewing projects in Kenya, Uganda, and Nicaragua, helping communities become self-sufficient in menstrual hygiene management.
Would your organization like an engaging 1–2 hour service project?
The Pads4Girls team has developed a hands-on presentation explaining the fundamentals of pad making. Those with and without sewing skills will all find ways to participate! Contact Peggy Hardy to schedule a speaker to come present to your organization.
Want to make your own pads?
You’ll need some basic supplies
Snaps
These plastic resin snaps work well. They are easy to attach using the snap pliers. They are CPSIA compliant and have CPSC certification.
Pliers
You will need the right tool! These snap pliers are for easily and quickly applying the plastic snap closures.
Cutting Machine
The Accuquilt Go! Cutting Machine ($379) and custom dies ($150 each) will make it possible to cut your fabric. The pattern is already done, so you shouldn’t have to pay the custom design fee. Contact Peggy if you want to order the dies.
Instructional Videos
Peggy demonstrates how to make your own pads in these step by step videos!