Community sewing day to tackle period poverty

A community sewing day in support of period poverty charity Pachamama Project will take place in Dilton Marsh this month.

Organised by the Threads of Dignity group at Holy Trinity Eco Church, the day will be held on Saturday 12th September at Dilton Marsh Memorial Hall from 10am to 4pm.

The Pachamama Project is a not-for-profit network founded in 2020 which brings together volunteers across the UK to make reusable sanitary pads for refugees and vulnerable women and girls.

“Holy Trinity Eco Church Sewing Days have now celebrated five years of making period pads for the Pachamama Project,” said organiser Lynne Vercoe. “A wonderful achievement with approximately 6,000 pads being made.”

“The pads that the group made in March joined a consignment to Lebanon and are now being distributed in refugee camps in war-torn areas of the country. Following a very busy Saturday in July, we have 300 drawstring bags waiting to go to the charity. These are used to hold eight pads for each lady.”

The group was recently supported with a grant from Westbury Town Council, which will help provide materials and equipment to make more pads.

All are welcome to join the sewing day, including people who do not sew. Drinks will be available, but attendees are encouraged to bring lunch if they plan to stay all day.

“Thanks must go to the Dilton Memorial Hall, who kindly provide the venue free of charge,” said Lynne. “Without their support we would have great difficulty in continuing our support of this essential project. Also, to The Weavers who donate cakes, to keep us all going!”

Volunteers who are unable to attend can make pads at home or help with the preparation of fabric.

For more details, contact Lynne at vercoelynne@gmail.com.