On Nov. 12, 85 volunteers from the Cornell campus and the Ithaca community transformed an apparel design studio in the Human Ecology Building into a mass-production sewing factory. Instead of clothing, however, reusable feminine hygiene kits rolled off the assembly line, intended for young women in poor parts of Africa and Asia who might otherwise go without such basic necessities.

The workers included both genders and ranged in age from grade-schoolers to retirees. They ended the day with 54 kits for donation to the nonprofit Days for Girls International, which delivers such supplies to 21 countries on five continents. With more help from the community, organizers plan to make 100 kits in all.

"This really is a project that has brought out the best in the Ithaca community," said professor of policy analysis and management Andrea Parrot, one of the organizers. "Considering that menstruation is often a taboo subject, this project resonated with many. As one volunteer told me, 'It is heartwarming.'"

The project, led by students and professors in the College of Human Ecology, began earlier this fall when Erin Malley '11, a teaching assistant for Parrot's Human Sexuality course read about Days for Girls and was inspired to help. Parrot's students -- many without sewing experience -- showed interest, and the idea quickly spread to include Department of Fiber Science & Apparel Design (FSAD) students, led by professor Susan Ashdown. Local businesses Sew Green, Homespun Boutique and Quilters Corner and the Ithaca chapter of Dining for Women drummed up supporters and offered material donations. On campus, the Alpha Phi Omega service fraternity and the Cornell Women's Resource Center contributed funds and volunteers.

The kits include underwear, shields with washable, removable pads, soap, and a washcloth -- all items that help women to handle menstruation. Without access to such supplies, some girls must stay home from school for days when they get their period, causing them to fall behind. Or they resort to using corn husks or other unsanitary materials as replacements for pads, risking infections and other serious health issues.

"The lack of something as basic as menstrual pads for young girls has so many consequences for their education, health, fertility and social status, and leads to further gender disparities," said Malley. "It's really eye-opening to learn about, and it's certainly something women in this country take for granted."

FSAD junior Matilda Ceesay coordinated the assembly line for the day. Originally from The Gambia, she said she understood well the hardships endured by young women in the developing world.

"Imagine not being able to leave home for days because of menstruation," she said. "These kits are a small contribution that can make a big difference in the lives of these girls."

Tucked into the Cornell kits are a token of solidarity: a card containing an illustration by FSAD senior Liz Wheeler that depicts two faces above hands extended in friendship and signed by some of the people who sewed the kits.

"We wanted to communicate that we're happy to be in a position to help, the idea of a sisterhood and alliance shared among us," Wheeler said. "Menstruation is viewed negatively in many cultures, but we want to show that it's not shameful but a natural part of life."

Seeing the widespread interest in the cause, project leaders hope to form a Cornell student organization in support of Days for Girls, which would meet regularly to raise awareness and produce kits.

Ted Boscia is assistant director of communications for the College of Human Ecology.