'Sanitary Sisters' take suitcases full of hope and help to women in Zimbabwe

Over the past three-and-a-half years, the group of volunteers has been meeting at Wragby Library to create washable, reusable sanitary products from donated and recycled fabric.

Thanks to the generosity of the local community, this Africa Project resulted in a trip to Zimbabwe this month to hand over four suitcases packed with hand-made support, donated fabric and essential items.

Inside the cases were 400 reusable sanitary towels and 2,000 cut-out pads ready to be sewn. The volunteers also donated a sewing machine, threads and equipment.

The trip was self-funded by Christina Marriott and her niece, Mia Holme, two members of the group, and it marked a proud milestone for the small but determined Africa Project group in Wragby, known as the ‘Sanitary Sisters’.

While in Zimbabwe, the duo also spent a week training women to make their own reusable products, helping to promote dignity, sustainability and long-term independence.

Team leader Christina commented: “The ‘Sanitary Sisters’ would like to say a huge thankyou to their wonderful volunteers, to everyone who has donated fabric and all those who have recently supported our GoFundMe appeal. We simply couldn’t have done this without you.

"As we grow, we’d love more helping hands, especially anyone who can sew. We meet every Thursday at Wragby Library at the community hub on Millbrook Lane.

"Whether you’re experienced with a sewing machine, or just fancy helping out over tea and biscuits, you’ll be warmly welcomed.

"Pop along on a Thursday, or email [email protected] to find out more.”

In the past, the ‘Sanitary Sisters’ have made reusable pads for girls in Kenya. Without these products, the girls often have to miss school, which can have a devastating effect on their education. The support provided by the Wragby volunteers was described as having “a massive impact”.