Ujaas and Stayfree join forces to address menstrual health needs in Maharashtra

Mumbai, November 7, 2023: Recognizing the need to address the gap in menstrual health management for underprivileged girls in India, Ujaas and Stayfree have partnered to supply sanitary pads, bolstering Ujaas' distribution efforts across 9 districts in Maharashtra. In addition to distributing sanitary pads, Ujaas will conduct educational workshops on Menstrual Health and Hygiene management in schools throughout the state. Ujaas, an initiative by Aditya Birla Education Trust, is committed to raising awareness about menstrual health and hygiene among school children aged 12 to 15. The distribution camps will operate in 9 districts in Maharashtra, providing Stayfree, a leading menstrual hygiene brand in India, to schoolgirls, enabling them to manage their periods independently.

As part of this collaboration, over 500,000 Stayfree Secure XL packs will be distributed among underprivileged girls in Mumbai, Palghar, Pune, Satara, Yavatmal, Aurangabad, Nandurbar, Amravati, and Washim. Alongside this distribution effort, Ujaas will conduct awareness sessions to educate girls about the importance of menstrual health and hygiene practices while dispelling long-standing stigmas and misconceptions.

Manoj Gadgil, Vice President, Marketing and Essential Health Business Unit Head, Kenvue said, “Lack of awareness around menstrual health and access to affordable high quality sanitary napkins coupled with poor sanitation facilities are often key barriers which restrict girls especially in rural areas. At Stayfree, we firmly believe that every girl deserves an opportunity to pursue her dreams without the fear, shame and discomfort of periods. We are delighted to collaborate with Ujaas to launch a holistic menstrual health initiative to improve accessibility of sanitary napkins, create awareness as well as eradicate stigmas to help young girls to pursue their dreams.”

 Speaking on the collaboration, Advaitesha Birla, Founder Ujaas said, "Such partnerships are essential bridges, narrowing the gap in accessibility to menstrual health products. Together, we confront the pressing challenges of awareness, accessibility, and affordability, particularly impacting young girls in rural areas. Ujaas is committed to providing accurate information and convenient access to menstrual products, reducing school absenteeism during menstrual days. Additionally, we are dedicated to promoting menstrual hygiene among women. Stayfree's support guarantees pad availability through Ujaas' initiative, reinforcing our commitment to menstrual health equity."

Ujaas is committed to fostering a significant shift in societal perspectives through grassroots initiatives, including educational sessions on menstrual health for girls and boys, ensuring product accessibility, and empowering educators to promote progressive change.