Welcome to the Rotary Club To End Human Trafficking

We meet via Zoom on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month at 7 AM US CT.

Email President@endHTrotaryclub.org to request the meeting link.

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

Dear Rotarians,

Thank you for your continued support, commitment, and passion for our Rotary Club to Ending Human Trafficking. Each of you plays a vital role in advancing our mission and strengthening the impact of our club. As I reflect on how far we have come and the determination with which our club has stayed its course, I am deeply inspired by the spirit of service and togetherness that unites us.

We are People of Action. One of Rotary’s greatest strengths is the ability of members to come together to create lasting change and transform dreams of progress into reality. From eradicating polio to building peace, much of Rotary’s global impact would not be possible without the dedication of members. As we continue through the 2025–2026 Rotary year, I ask for your support in achieving our Rotary Club to Ending Human Trafficking Priority Goals. These include strengthening club membership, implementing our strategic action plan, contributing to the Annual Fund, engaging in social activities and service projects, and maintaining a strong online presence. In addition, we will prioritize leadership development and active participation in District training opportunities.

More clubs within and outside of our District are eager to collaborate with us on projects that address human trafficking across borders. Our District is home to generous partners who recognize the power of working together and leveraging resources to achieve lasting impact. We will continue to nurture these collaborations, amplifying the effectiveness of our projects and expanding our global reach.

I am especially grateful for the enthusiasm of our new members from around the world, who have embraced our mission with dedication and fresh ideas. Each member brings unique talents and perspectives to our club. I encourage you to actively participate, join a committee, and share your skills.

As Rotarians, we connect the world. Let us remember that no challenge is too big for us. Together, we are committed to creating lasting change and tackling one of the world’s most pressing crises of human trafficking. Through raising awareness, educating children, youth, and communities, reducing risk factors that make populations vulnerable, and stopping the demand, we can make a difference.

Together—we can make an even bigger impact.

Yours in Rotary, Bassey Kooffreh.

President 2025–2026

Rotary Club to End Human Trafficking

Dignity Kit Project: Restoring the Dignity of Women & Girls in Uganda
Global Grant #2579763

Host Club: Rotary Club of Kasangati, D9213, Uganda
International Partner: Community Action Against Human Trafficking, D5710, Kansas, USA

This project was brought forth by Faron Barr, one of our Associate Members, member of Topeka South Rotary Club and Rotary Past Governor of District 5710 -- 2020-2021.

Project Overview

The Dignity Kit Project addresses the challenge of menstrual hygiene management for women and girls in Uganda. By producing and distributing reusable sanitary pads, the initiative empowers girls and young women in both urban (Mengo Kisenyi, Kampala) and rural (Bwera Sub County, Kasese District) communities.

This effort will enable girls to stay in school, avoid health risks, and reduce vulnerability to coercive situations—all while restoring dignity and breaking down harmful stigma.

The Challenge

In Uganda, cultural taboos often prevent open discussion about menstruation and reproductive health. Many girls lack the knowledge, resources, and support to manage their menstrual cycles safely and confidently.

Key barriers include:

Cost: Disposable pads cost approximately $1.50 per month, unaffordable for families living on less than $1 a day.
Access: Over 80% of women and girls in underserved areas lack consistent access to sanitary pads.
Health Risks: Improvised materials—rags, tissues, or leaves—are unsanitary, ineffective, and can lead to infection.
Education Impact: A girl may miss up to 45 school days per year due to lack of sanitary pads, contributing to school dropout, early marriage, and even entry into sex work.

Project Outcomes

Reduced stigma surrounding menstruation in project communities.
Increased availability of quality, reusable sanitary pads.
Improved menstrual hygiene management among girls and young women.
Fewer infections related to menstrual hygiene.

Monitoring and evaluation will be led by Jennifer Montgomery, Rotary Peace Fellow and founder of Magenta Girls Initiative.

Implementation Plan

Hire two professional trainers.
Train 20 women (10 in Mengo, 10 in Bwera) in reusable pad production.
Purchase and distribute 20 sewing machines plus needles, thread, and related supplies.
Create a sustainable training-of-trainers model to expand impact across communities.

This grant is ready to submit, but additional financial support is needed to fully fund the work.

Learn More

Faron and Jennifer presented on this project at our September 11 meeting. Please email president@endhtrotaryclub.org for the Zoom recording and a copy of the grant application.

Virtual Demand an End Fun Run (Sept. 5–7)