The winners of the Stayfree #SparktheChange contest were invited recently by Stayfree India, to attend one of their 'Women for Change' camps held this Sunday i.e 22nd Dec. We all assembled at Dadar, and then were taken in their hired taxis to an obscure chawl area in Khar, where the camp was organised ( from 12pm-3pm ). Camps such as these are a step towards a healthy and hygienic India!
When we reached the Koteshwar Gym ( after asking here and there ), we could see the women/girls sitting in mats spread out inside the gym, on the floor. They were all eagerly waiting for the camp to start. Soon two members from the Samhita NGO gave their introductions and explained what the event was all about and also gave details about their NGO, its collaboration with Stayfree India in organizing these kind of camps all over. In the last 1 year, they've touched upon almost 1500+ girls. And with public support in this very noble cause, they want to spread it more by 'Sharing' the awareness about the Women for Change initiative!
The camps are essentially held to make women of underprivileged, lower-strata groups more aware of their health and hygiene needs.  Meet the real Woman of Change!     The camp started with these pointers that were followed upon :
Measurements of heights and other details were taken of the girls.
The girls were taught about different infections that one can catch during their period and the importance of maintaining good hygiene, thus.
They were also taught with a demo - "How to wear a pad". They also learnt the negative effects of using cloth as well as the importance of wearing a pad.
Some myths were busted too - e.g One can exercise during their period. One can also cook food during periods, it is completely hygienic and safe.
The doctor then did a check up of the girls and explained how Folic acid and Calcium tablets strengthened the body, and also told them how important it is to take them regularly. After the doctor understood each woman's cycle, they were then handed a 3 month supply of tablets/pads.
A Hemoglobin test was also done on the girls, for signs of Anemia.   After these activities, it was time for some fun. An art competition was held between the bloggers and the girls who attended the camp. Ten pairs competed each other with the pencil, paper and sketch pens given. Most of them drew greeting cards ( Christmas & New Year ), I preferred to do bit different ( see my doodle above-right :D ). 5 pairs won photo frames for their sketches.
We bloggers got a goodie bag each, grabbed a bite and then headed back with some enlightened memories of this awesome event. |
That was a nice experience!
ReplyDeleteyes it was nice :-)
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