For over six years, a group of dedicated citizens in Lambton County has been working tirelessly to address a silent yet significant issue faced by women in developing countries. Known as Sew4TheFlow, these individuals have been handcrafting reusable, washable menstrual pads, paired with essential hygiene supplies, and distributing them to women in countries like Guatemala, Ukraine, Kyrgyzstan, and now Cuba. This initiative, which started with just a handful of volunteers, has resulted in the distribution of over 32,000 kits to date. With 8 pads in each kit, over a quarter-of-a-million pads have been sewn by the group.
The purpose of the kits is simple but life-changing. Many women in these countries cannot afford disposable menstrual products, a barrier that severely limits their participation in education and work. Sew4TheFlow’s solution provides a sustainable, reusable alternative that empowers women and girls to continue with their daily lives, even during their menstrual cycles. The kits include eight reusable pads, a washcloth, a bar of soap, and a pair of underwear. At the heart of this initiative is a deep understanding of the societal challenges women face during menstruation.
The Journal spoke with Coby Van Reenen, coordinator of Sew4TheFlow, who shared her enthusiasm for the project: “This has been something I am so passionate about. I don’t just like it; I love it.”
The kits have undergone improvements over time. "We used to have a pad that women would assemble themselves, but now they are all one piece,” Coby explains. The current design includes a polyurethane lining, the most expensive part of the pad, which ensures the pads are waterproof and reliable. This design has been refined over the years, and the streamlined production process has allowed the volunteers to continue making a difference even after their numbers dropped due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Before COVID, we had about 30 people participating. Now, we have around 10 sewers who work diligently,” Coby shares, emphasizing the ongoing dedication of the volunteers. “Year-round, my basement is basically a little sewing factory. I try to do a little each day.” The passion and commitment of these volunteers remain the driving force behind Sew4TheFlow’s continued success, even with fewer hands to help.
The people behind Sew4TheFlow do not just sew for the sake of crafting but with the knowledge that their work directly impacts the lives of other women. By providing menstrual products, these volunteers are giving women the freedom to continue their education, support their families, and break the cycle of exclusion during menstruation.
However, this project is not without its challenges. The group has been largely self-funded, with volunteers often paying for supplies out of their own pockets. To continue their work, Sew4TheFlow is always accepting donations, especially flannel fabric of any size or colour.
Their impact may start with a single stitch, but its ripple effect can be felt across continents.
If you are interested in donating materials to Sew4TheFlow, call or text Coby Van Reenen at 519-381-2317 or Pat Mensinga at 519-381-0934.