The Bureau of Gender Affairs is announcing a shift in its work plan after Tropical Storm Erika.
On Tuesday October 6th, Acting Director of the Bureau of Gender Affairs, Kyra Paul told GIS News that since Tropical Storm Erika, the bureau has had to make several changes.
Paul says shelters will be incorporated into the bureau’s Social Mobilization Campaign.
That campaign was set to be launched in September and was made possible through a $162,000 donation from UN Women to target the youth, the community, the church, victims of gender-based violence and others.
“When there are disasters, a number of other social issues arrive related the vulnerabilities of women and girls,” she said.
The Director notes that women who are challenged by social issues would be more vulnerable in these shelters.
“Although on one hand, shelters provide safety in terms of disaster, at the same time, it creates vulnerabilities…We will be addressing traumas related to gender-based violence, trainings, public education, workshops with shelter managers, and sexual and reproductive health.
In the wake of the storm, financial and technical assistance from UN Women and family planning associates have been received. As a result, 400 Dignity Kits have been made available.
The Bureau received US $32,000 to provide those kits.
“In times of disaster, while we focus on the basic needs, sometimes the personal aspects for women are forgotten. The Dignity Kits will provide items to ensure that their hygiene and dignity are maintained in times of disaster. Each kit costs at least US $80.
“We had three different types: reproductive age for girls 10+, non-productive kits for menopausal women and adult kits for elderly women.
Items in these kits include shampoo, toothbrushes, sanitary napkins, towels, combs, lotions and deodorant.
(File photo)