The MoonCatcher Project helps women outside of the U.S. access products so they can rise above problems related to menstruation, such as missing school.

Located in the Capital Region, the organization creates kits to send to countries where pads and tampons aren’t readily available. The kits are sent to countries like Kenya, Pakistan and Haiti.

Some women in those countries and others have to miss school when they menstruate.

“When they lose that many days of school a year — it can be as many as 50 days — they end up falling so far behind that they’ll drop out of school,” says Ellie Vonwellsheim, founder and director of the MoonCatcher Project.

Kits are made during “moonbees,” events held at different locations where people can assemble the reusable, washable pads.

Madison Mackey, a student at the Academy of the Holy Names, started hosting moonbees at her school as part of a project for Girl Scouts.

“We have so much access to a nurse's office and the health office and menstrual supplies,” says Mackey, “You can ask a friend, ask to go to the nurses office, and in these countries, these girls don’t have that.”

Mackey has become fundamental to the organization, helping with fundraisers and other events. She has even secured what’s needed to continue the moonbees at Holy Names after she graduates.

“I just feel a sense of reward that I’m able to help other girls stay in school ... and just girls feeling that sense of empowerment that even though they are menstruating, they are still able to go to school,” says Mackey.

The MoonCatcher Project is holding smaller gatherings during the pandemic.

Anyone interested in learning more can visit its website.