Aunty Red Cares

According to the World Health Organization, 1 in 6 people (1.3 billion) have a significant disability. Globally, the prevalence of disability in women and girls is higher (19 percent) than in men and boys (12 percent). The number of women and girls with disabilities is also set to increase. According to a  report presented by the Secretary General of the United Nations in 2017 “on the situation of women and girls with disabilities, as well as the status of the Convention on the Rights of Persons With Disabilities (CRPD), women and girls with disabilities were expected to reach 700 million globally by 2015.” (UNICEF, 2021).

Despite the significant and increasing number of women and girls with disabilities (WWD), not much attention has been paid to addressing their unique menstrual health and hygiene needs, especially in lower and middle-income countries such as Sri Lanka. Consequently, WWD face stigma, discrimination, and health issues related to menstruation and reproductive health. 

Through the preliminary findings of a study (Red for You research project) that our team is currently carrying out in the Colombo, Galle and Kandy districts in Sri Lanka, we have identified issues and barriers experienced by WWD with regard to their menstrual health and hygiene needs, including the following: 

• Lack of Access to Menstrual Health Information: Many WWD in Sri Lanka lack access to accurate and tailored information about menstrual health and hygiene (MHH).  This knowledge gap can lead to health issues and a lack of agency in managing their own reproductive health.

• Family Burden and Lack of Social Support: Families, particularly male caregivers, feel burdened due to the lack of social support and information regarding menstruation for their family members who are WWD. This places additional stress on both the caregivers and the women and girls with disabilities
  

• Limited Healthcare Services: WWD often face barriers in accessing essential reproductive healthcare services due to the lack of accessibility of these services. This is particularly relevant to the deaf community, due to the lack of sign language interpreters in the health services, and to the Tamil-speaking community, due to lack of  Tamil fluency of midwives and other health professionals/government administrators. 

• Stigma and Discrimination: WWD frequently encounter stigma and discrimination when seeking information or care related to menstrual/reproductive health. WWD report feeling objectified by health personnel, or being seen as not needing menstrual care or reproductive health information. 

• Data Deficiency: The absence of a comprehensive digital database addressing menstrual and reproductive health issues among WWD makes it difficult to tailor services and advocacy efforts effectively.  Existing data, scattered across government and non-governmental agencies, is outdated and lacks a clear disability classification. Furthermore, there is a notable lack of data concerning Tamil-speaking women with disabilities.

Our solution is an integrated approach that addresses the specific challenges faced by women and girls with disabilities (WWD) in Sri Lanka, focusing on menstrual health and hygiene. This integrated solution comprises multiple components that are closely interconnected, creating a comprehensive support system:

1. Aunty Red Menstrual Health Training Program:

• The first component involves equipping community volunteers, known as Aunty Reds, with comprehensive training on menstrual health, hygiene, and rights tailored to WWD.

• Volunteers will be sourced from grassroots community organizations, disability-led community organizations and Organizations for Persons with Disabilities, and will include WWD and their caregivers. 

• These trained Aunty Reds serve as the foundation of our initiative, ensuring that accurate information and support are readily available to the target beneficiaries.

• Aunty Reds also play a vital role in data collection by gathering relevant information from the WWD they support. This data is a critical input for the digital database

• 2. Digital Database on Menstrual and Reproductive Health:

• A cloud-based digital database will be created for this purpose. This database serves as the central repository for recording and managing data related to menstrual health and reproductive health issues among WWD.

• A web application (ARC Web) will be designed to collect and manage health-related data from text messages and WhatsApp messages. It will enable seamless interaction with users, particularly  women and girls with disabilities, while ensuring secure and accessible data upload to a cloud-based database, empowering inclusive healthcare solutions.
  

• Data collected by Aunty Reds is sent in via Whatsapp or text and securely recorded in the database via the ARC Web app , creating a robust resource for informed decision-making and targeted healthcare services.

• The database ensures a data-driven approach, enabling us to address the unique healthcare needs of WWD effectively.

• 3. Mobile Telehealth Clinics for Menstrual and Reproductive Health:

• The mobile clinics are staffed with on-site volunteers and connected to specialists digitally for consultations.

• Aunty Reds play a vital role in facilitating these telehealth consultations and information sessions, ensuring that WWD attend sessions and  receive timely and specialized reproductive healthcare information.

• The data recorded in the digital database can be accessed by healthcare professionals during these consultations, creating a seamless and informed healthcare experience.

• 4. Accessible Menstrual Health Education:

• This component focuses on conducting accessible information sessions alongside the mobile clinics, specifically tailored to diverse disabilities.

• Aunty Reds are key educators who provide tailored information on menstrual health and hygiene to WWD, empowering them with the knowledge they need to manage their menstrual health effectively.

• Educational efforts are further supported by informative booklets and materials in accessible formats  developed as part of the project. 

These components are interconnected to create a holistic and supportive ecosystem. Aunty Reds serve as advocates and educators, collecting data for the digital database, providing reproductive health information, and connecting WWD to responsible professionals through the mobile clinics. The data collected informs targeted healthcare services, ensuring that the unique needs of WWD are addressed effectively, thus contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society.

The solution primarily serves women and girls with disabilities (WWD) in 12 selected Divisional Secretariat (DS) divisions in Sri Lanka across the districts of Colombo, Kandy and Galle. It targets WWD who often face barriers in accessing reproductive healthcare and menstrual health and hygiene information tailored to their specific needs. The project also indirectly benefits their caregivers and the broader community by creating awareness and providing education on menstrual health and hygiene as well as reproductive health. Additionally, the project encourages cross-sector collaboration, engaging government bodies, corporations, and non-profit organizations in the process.

Short-Term SMART Outcomes (0-6 months):

• Knowledge Empowerment: Within the first six months, 30 Aunty Reds (10 per district) will undergo comprehensive training and serve as advocates, providing personalized menstrual health and reproductive rights information to approximately 300 women and girls with disabilities (WWD).
• Access to Healthcare: During this period, mobile telehealth clinics will offer free reproductive healthcare services, including menstrual health check-ups and consultations. These services will directly benefit around 300 WWD in Colombo, Kandy, and Galle.
• Data Collection: In the initial six months, data collection efforts will commence, with Aunty Reds recording information on menstrual and reproductive health issues for up to 300 WWD. This data will form the foundation for tailored healthcare services and advocacy.

Mid-Term SMART Outcomes (6-18 months):

• Expanded Reach: By the 18-month mark, the project will have expanded into three additional districts, serving an additional 900 WWD and their caregivers. The total beneficiary count will reach 1,200 WWD.
• Community Engagement: Aunty Reds will actively challenge stigmas and discrimination. This period will see the distribution of accessible information dockets tied to the mobile clinics, reducing the number of info sessions to a maximum of 3 per month while reaching and educating up to 200 WWD and caregivers.
• Sustainability: The project will work toward self-sustainability, aiming to continue serving WWD by the end of the 18 months. A total of 90 Aunty Reds will be actively involved in advocacy efforts.
• Data-Informed Services: The data collection effort will lead to better-tailored healthcare services, benefiting an increasing number of WWD, reaching up to 1,000 within the 18-month timeframe.

Long-Term SMART Outcomes (18+ months):

• Empowerment: Over the long term, the project will empower 300 Aunty Reds, enabling them to support up to 3,000 WWD in advocating for their rights and accessing healthcare services.
• Inclusive Society: By the end of the project's duration, it will have fostered a more inclusive and empathetic society, benefiting a total of 3,000 WWD and their caregivers through awareness and advocacy efforts.
• Data-Driven Policies: The data accumulated over time will inform policy changes and healthcare service improvements, positively affecting healthcare access and knowledge for up to 1,000 WWD.

These SMART outcomes ensure a focused, time-bound approach to achieving our goals, considering the six-month MIT Solve grant period. They address each component, including Aunty Reds, mobile telehealth clinics, accessible information sessions, and database development while efficiently utilizing resources and reaching the target beneficiaries.

Our team is uniquely positioned to drive the "Aunty Red for Menstrual Health and Reproductive Rights" project, and I'd like to highlight our qualifications, experience, and the valuable connections we've established within the communities we are dedicated to serving. Here's how we stand out:

• Diverse and Gender-Equal Board: Our 12-member board boasts remarkable diversity, with women making up 75% of its composition, and 2 persons with disabilities serving as board members. This diversity extends to our team's cross-sectoral expertise, including members with backgrounds in monitoring and evaluation, project management, public health, and entrepreneurship. This diversity ensures that we approach our project comprehensively, incorporating a wide range of skills and insights.
• In-Depth Community Insights: We have already conducted research in Colombo, Kandy, and Galle, which has granted us invaluable insights into these communities, which in turn forms the basis for this proposal. This research has also allowed us to establish strong connections with local governments in these districts. These connections will facilitate the implementation of our project and enhance community engagement.
• Proven Track Record with Multi-Component Projects: In our first year of operation, we're on track to successfully complete a multi-component 6-month project valued at $14,000, known as "Red for You." This project, funded by the US Embassy in Sri Lanka through the Small and Mighty Grants program, entailed research across three districts, the production of a social media campaign, and advocacy initiatives. This achievement demonstrates our capability to manage and deliver complex projects effectively.
• Leadership and Advocacy Expertise (Ishan Jalill) As the Founder and President of Ability for Action, I bring over 13 years of experience in the realm of advocacy and campaigning, with a specialization in Disability, Gender, and Youth. I've had the privilege of working with both national and international organizations and entities, including the United Nations, the US State Department, International Republican Institute, International Foundation for Electoral Systems, Leonard Cheshire Disability UK, Standard Chartered Bank, and the Sri Lanka Youth Parliament. This extensive experience ensures that our project remains grounded in best practices and inclusive approaches.
• Prof. Ruwanthi Perera: Prof. Ruwanthi Perera, a Consultant Pediatrician and Senior Lecturer, lends crucial medical expertise to our team. Her contributions in the field of adolescent health, as well as her affiliations with organizations like the Technical Advisory Committee on Adolescent Health and the Sri Lanka College of Pediatricians, enrich our project's health-related aspects.
• Ms. Manique Gunarathne: Ms. Manique Gunarathne, herself a woman with a visual impairment and a passionate advocate for the inclusion of persons with disabilities, is celebrated for receiving numerous awards, including the prestigious "Keerthisri Lankabhimani Deshabandu" award in 2014. Her impressive array of qualifications and international involvement as a trainer in CISCO qualifications and a Supported Employment Officer qualified from the Northern Ireland Union of Supported Employment bring invaluable expertise to our project's inclusivity and accessibility endeavors.

Together, our team brings together a wealth of diverse skills, extensive experience, and deep connections within our target communities. We are exceptionally well-prepared to deliver an innovative and comprehensive solution that addresses the menstrual health and reproductive rights of women and girls with disabilities in Sri Lanka, ensuring our project is both effective and culturally relevant. 

Our solution, "Aunty Red for Reproductive Health," has evolved beyond the conceptual stage and qualifies as a prototype due to several key factors:

• Initial Research: We initiated our journey with the first project undertaken by Ability for Action, funded by the US Embassy in Sri Lanka, which focused on Menstrual Health and Hygiene (MHH). This research served as the foundational step in our mission. The proposal for "Aunty Red" is built on the findings and insights gleaned from this initial MHH research. It provides a real-world context and data that inform our current prototype. This research demonstrates a tangible commitment to addressing the challenges faced by women and girls with disabilities (WWD).
• Accumulated Resources and Connections: Through our research, we have accumulated valuable connections and resources. These connections include community organizations, government entities, healthcare providers, and WWD and their caregivers. Our prototype capitalizes on these connections, ensuring that our solution is not just a theoretical concept but an initiative firmly grounded in practical experience and engagement.
• Project Pilot (Red for You): In our inaugural year of operation, we are on track to successfully complete a multi-component project called "Red for You." This project, valued at $14,000, encompassed research in three districts, the production of a social media campaign, and advocacy initiatives. This real-world implementation illustrates our capacity to move beyond theory and bring our ideas to life.

By building on the insights from our MHH research, our accumulated connections, and the practical experience gained from "Red for You," our prototype for "Aunty Red" represents a concrete step toward addressing the challenges faced by WWD in the realm of menstrual health and reproductive rights. It signifies a commitment to translating ideas into tangible actions and outcomes, making it more than just a concept.

Our solution, "Aunty Red for Menstrual Health and Reproductive Rights," stands out as innovative and unique for several reasons:

• Cultural Relevance:  Recognizing the cultural significance of the "redi nanda"  role (community washerwoman/wise woman fondly addressed as "clothes aunt") in Sri Lanka, traditionally responsible for women's reproductive health information, we've reimagined and adapted this concept for the modern era. This approach ensures that our solution resonates with the local context and traditions, making it more relatable and engaging for the communities we serve.
• Multi-Faceted Approach: What sets our solution apart is its multi-faceted nature. It combines training, mobile telehealth clinics, accessible information sessions, and data-driven advocacy into a seamless ecosystem. This comprehensive approach addresses multiple dimensions of the challenge faced by women and girls with disabilities (WWD), ensuring they receive a holistic and tailored solution for menstrual health and reproductive rights.
• Empowerment of WWD as Advocates: Unlike traditional models where external actors often lead, our project is distinctive in that WWD will actively lead the effort as advocates. Aunty Reds, including WWD and their caregivers, will serve as advocates for menstrual health and reproductive rights, making the project a community-driven and community-led initiative, fostering a sense of empowerment and self-advocacy among WWD.
• Innovative Data-Driven Approach: Our commitment to collecting and utilizing data to drive targeted healthcare services and advocacy efforts is innovative. This data-driven approach ensures that the unique needs of WWD in managing their menstrual health are addressed with precision.
• Community Engagement and Inclusivity: We actively involve local community organizations, disability-led groups, and Organizations for Persons with Disabilities. This inclusive approach not only acknowledges the importance of community engagement but also ensures that the project is relevant and responsive to the diverse needs of WWD
• Flexible and Adaptive Business Model: We are pioneering a flexible and adaptive business model. Acknowledging that we are a prototype and still figuring things out, we actively explore and test various approaches, including leveraging existing corporate connections and potential cross-subsidization models. This adaptability is innovative in ensuring sustainability while remaining open to evolution.

 One-Year Impact Goals:

Successful implementation of the "Aunty Red Cares" project in the selected 12 Divisional Secretariat divisions, as measured by the following:

• No of WWD served by the telehealth clinics > 600
• No of WWD included in the database >600
• No of Aunty Reds trained >= 60 (30 every 6 months)

Establishment of Cross-Sector Steering Committee: Led by WWD and/or their caregivers, this committee will play a pivotal role in managing the project, ensuring that it remains community-driven and effectively collaborates with stakeholders.

Secure 3 short to mid-term commitments from corporate sponsors and donors through existing team connections: This financial support will enable sustainable funding for the project, provide menstrual and reproductive health products, and expand the initiative's reach.

How We Will Achieve Them:

• Closely monitor project implementation, gather feedback and adjust the program as needed. 
• Leverage existing connections within the community to facilitate establishment of a cross-sector steering committee.
• Use our existing network and connections to approach potential sponsors and donors; showcase pilot project performance and success stories
• Collaboration with government bodies will be facilitated through existing connections built in the research phase. 

Five-Year Impact Goals:

Scaling to New Regions: Over the next five years, we aim to expand the "Aunty Red Cares" project to three additional districts in Sri Lanka, increasing the population of WWD served to 3000.

Gain national recognition as a model initiative for addressing the menstrual health and hygiene and reproductive health needs of WWD, as measured by media coverage metrics and/or awards received. 

Corporate Partnerships: Establish at least 2 long-term partnerships with corporations. These partnerships will ensure continued funding and support for the initiative, as well as the provision of menstrual products and other reproductive health resources for WWD.

Empowered Advocacy:  We aim to recruit at least 150 WWD as Aunty Reds within the first 5 years, empowering WWD to become strong advocates for their own rights, not only within the project but also in broader social and political contexts.

Data-Driven Impact: We will continue to leverage the digital database to inform targeted healthcare services and advocate for systemic changes. Data will remain a powerful tool for demonstrating the initiative's impact and driving improvements in MHH infrastructure and reproductive healthcare for WWD.

How We Will Achieve Them:

Replicating the pilot project model while adapting it to the unique needs of each district.

Continuous advocacy and policy engagement. We will work with government bodies to scale the project nationally and influence policies that support WWD's menstrual and  reproductive health.

Effective communication via social and broadcast media, showcasing the initiative's impact; maintaining existing connections and actively seek new corporate partners who share our commitment to this cause.

Empowering advocacy among WWD will be an ongoing process. We will continue to provide education and platforms for WWD to voice their concerns and advocate for their rights in a more prominent role.

Continually collect and analyze data, using it to inform the project's development and advocating for systemic changes in healthcare access and services for WWD.

 "Aunty Red Cares," is grounded in the 14 key considerations for reaching women and girls with disabilities (WWD) as outlined in UNICEF's Guidance Note on Menstrual Health and Hygiene of Women and Girls with Disabilities (2021). It aims to address the unique challenges faced by WWD in Colombo, Kandy, and Galle, Sri Lanka.

The 14 key considerations, as outlined by UNICEF, underscore the need for tailored support and inclusivity for WWD in MHH interventions. Each of our project components aligns with specific considerations, creating a strong theory of change:

Component 1: Aunty Reds (Aunty Red Training Program):

• Key Consideration Addressed: Engagement with Parents of Children with Disabilities
• Link: Aunty Reds are trained to support WWD, recognizing the pivotal role of parents and caregivers in managing menstruation safely and with dignity.

Component 2: Mobile Telehealth Clinics:

• Key Consideration Addressed: Outreach Activities for Out-of-School Girls
• Link: The clinics ensure that out-of-school girls and women with disabilities receive essential menstrual health information and services.

Component 3: Accessible Information Sessions/Dockets:

• Key Consideration Addressed: Availability of Knowledge Materials 
• Link:  Information sessions and docket distribution are essential tools for reaching and engaging WWD. 

Component 4: Database Development:

• Key Consideration Addressed: Disaggregated Data Collection
• Link: We collect and store data on menstrual and reproductive health issues, with a specific focus on girls and women with disabilities. This approach aligns with the need to gather specific data to understand their unique needs and experiences.

Our project's alignment with these key considerations is further validated by the preliminary findings of our research study in Colombo, Kandy, and Galle. These findings emphasize the critical importance of addressing these considerations to ensure the project's effectiveness in supporting WWD.

Moreover, there is evidence available for the efficacy of each component in achieving similar outcomes. A 2021 study shows that mobile telehealth clinics were used effectively to target underserved populations during the pandemic. An article from Oxford Academic shows that "Community health volunteers could help improve access to and use of essential health services by communities in LMICs". Providing information in accessible formats have been shown to make users with disabilities feel valued and to improve understanding. . 

In conclusion, our project is strategically designed to address the specific needs and challenges of WWD in Sri Lanka, as guided by UNICEF's key considerations. By aligning each component with these considerations, we create a robust framework that not only supports the immediate outputs of the project but also contributes to longer-term outcomes such as empowerment, inclusivity, and data-driven policies. Our approach underscores the importance of tailored support for WWD in MHH interventions and is aligned with MIT Solve's goals of finding innovative solutions to pressing global challenges. Moreover, our proposed project components have been proven to be effective in reaching persons with disabilities or underserved populations.

Full time- 2

Part time- 4

Volunteers- 6

This solution aims to build on our research project on menstrual health and hygiene of women and girls with disabilities (WWD). While we officially commenced the project in July 2023, we have been conducting preliminary research (including desk studies and overview of available data) since January 2023. 

Incorporating diversity, equity, and inclusivity into our work at "Ability for Action" is not just a commitment but a fundamental guiding principle. We recognize the significance of these elements in ensuring the success and relevance of our project in addressing the unique challenges faced by women and girls with disabilities (WWD) in Sri Lanka.

Diversity within Leadership: Our leadership team is a testament to our dedication to diversity. Nine out of twelve board members are female, with one representing the vital perspective of women with disabilities. Moreover, I, our Team Lead, am visually impaired, bringing a unique and valuable viewpoint to our project.

Diversity within the Team: We are proud of our team's diverse representation, which includes individuals from various ethnic and religious backgrounds in Sri Lanka (Sinhalese Buddhists and Christians, Tamils, Malays and Muslims). This diversity enables us to navigate the complex cultural and social dynamics of the communities we serve, ensuring our project is inclusive and relevant.

Equity and Inclusion in Target Beneficiaries: Our project revolves around the needs and challenges of WWD, who often face exclusion and discrimination. Inclusivity is not just a concept but a lived reality in our approach. We actively engage WWD to become Aunty Reds, who serve as advocates for their peers. This empowerment is pivotal in prioritizing equity by creating opportunities for marginalized groups to actively participate and lead within our project.

Tailoring to Tamil Community: Our research unveiled a concerning disparity - very few Tamil individuals, especially women and girls with disabilities, are included in disability data collection, Disabled People's Organizations (DPOs), or disability-related advocacy events in Colombo, Kandy, and Galle. This disparity is exacerbated by the fact that the few who do participate are Sinhala-speaking.

In response, we are dedicated to making a concerted effort to reach out to native Tamil speakers and Tamil individuals who are women and girls with disabilities. We aim to ensure that the unique needs of this community are recognized and addressed within our project.

Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is not just a statement but a core element of our approach. We aspire to create an environment where all team members, beneficiaries, and communities we serve are welcomed, respected, supported, and valued. Our aim is to foster a more inclusive and equitable society where every woman and girl with a disability can access the support and knowledge they deserve. We are fully aligned with the organizer's commitment to these principles and remain dedicated to upholding them in our work.

Our business model at "Ability for Action" is a comprehensive and inclusive solution designed to address the unique challenges faced by women and girls with disabilities (WWD) in Sri Lanka. We are deeply committed to providing comprehensive support in menstrual health and reproductive rights, ensuring that the specific needs of WWD are met.

Key Resources:

1. Human Resources: Our dedicated team includes board members, project managers, and community volunteers, known as "Aunty Reds." These volunteers are the backbone of our initiative, ensuring that accurate information and support are readily available to the target beneficiaries.

2. Training and Educational Materials: We create accessible training materials and information resources tailored to WWD, empowering them with knowledge and skills to manage their menstrual health effectively.

3. Mobile Telehealth Clinics: These clinics, equipped with qualified healthcare professionals and medical supplies, provide essential healthcare services.

4. Data Collection and Management Tools: We develop and maintain a digital database for collecting and analyzing data related to menstrual and reproductive health, enabling informed decision-making and targeted healthcare services.

Key Activities:

1. Training and Capacity Building: Aunty Reds are trained to serve as advocates for WWD, equipping them with the knowledge and communication skills needed to support the community effectively.

2. Mobile Telehealth Clinics: We offer free reproductive healthcare services, including menstrual health check-ups and consultations, through these mobile clinics.

3. Accessible Information Sessions/Dockets: Information sessions and materials tailored to diverse disabilities educate WWD on menstrual health and reproductive rights.

4. Development of Digital Database: We collect data through trained Aunty Reds and use a web application, ARC Web, to upload data securely to a cloud-based database.

Partners and Stakeholders:

1. Grassroots Community Organizations: These organizations help source volunteers, including Aunty Reds.

2. Disability-led Community Organizations: These provide valuable insights and connections within the disability community.

3. Healthcare Professionals: Collaborating with healthcare experts is crucial for our mobile clinics.

4. Government and NGOs: These entities provide resources and support for expanding our reach.

5. Corporate Sponsors: We actively seek support from corporate sponsors to ensure continued funding of the overall initiative, as well as for sustainable data collection and the upkeep of our digital tools.

Type of Interventions:

Our interventions focus on capacity building, healthcare provision, education, and data collection, all centered around menstrual health and reproductive rights for WWD.

Channels:

We employ a combination of offline and online channels to reach our target beneficiaries. Aunty Reds serve as community-based channels for education and support, while mobile telehealth clinics facilitate online healthcare services. Our digital channels enable secure data management and online awareness campaigns.

Surplus:

Any surplus generated through our activities is reinvested into the project to ensure its sustainability and expansion. It supports ongoing training, clinic operations, and the development of resources for WWD.

Revenue:

While our primary focus is on social impact, we may explore revenue streams through partnerships with government health programs, grants, or collaborations with healthcare organizations and corporate sponsors. These revenues would be reinvested in the project to enhance its effectiveness and reach.

Segments Served:

Our primary segment includes women and girls with disabilities (WWD) in selected Divisional Secretariat divisions in Colombo, Kandy, and Galle. Additionally, we serve caregivers and families of WWD, as well as the broader community.

Our business model is rooted in a social mission to empower WWD, promote equity, and provide comprehensive support in the realm of menstrual health and reproductive rights. It aligns with our commitment to address the specific needs of this marginalized group and foster a more inclusive society.

1. Short-Term Steps (0-6 months, during the MIT Solve grant period):

Testing and Validation: In the short term, we will focus on testing various components of our project to understand their potential for financial sustainability. This includes assessing the response to our training programs, mobile clinics, and data collection efforts.

Corporate Connections: During this phase, we will leverage our existing corporate connections and seek financial support, grants, and in-kind donations from corporate partners to cover initial operational costs. We will establish partnerships that can provide the necessary resources to kickstart our project.

1. Mid-Term Steps (6-18 months, post-MIT Solve grant):

Cross-Subsidization: In the mid-term, we plan to develop and implement a cross-subsidization model. This will involve using income generated from one aspect of our project, such as training and advocacy services, to support the operations of other components, including mobile clinics and data collection. Cross-subsidization will help ensure that the project remains affordable and accessible to our target beneficiaries.

Fundraising and Grants: We will actively seek grants and fundraising opportunities. We will explore partnerships with organizations that share our mission and values to secure funding for sustainability. By the mid-term, these financial partnerships will become essential for the continued success of our project.

3. Long-Term Steps (18+ months):

Community and Public Support: In the long term, we aim to mobilize community and public support. This includes seeking contributions from the communities we serve, as well as the general public, through donations, volunteerism, and awareness campaigns. Community and public support can play a crucial role in sustaining the project over the long term.

Cost-Efficiency: We will continue to prioritize cost-efficiency and effective resource management. This ongoing commitment to controlling overhead and seeking cost-effective solutions will ensure that the project remains financially sustainable in the long run.

Sustainability Evaluation: Throughout all phases, we will regularly evaluate the sustainability of our model. We will assess the impact of our revenue-generation efforts and adjust our strategies as needed to ensure the project's financial viability.

Diversification: We will explore diversified income streams, potentially including product sales or income-generating activities that align with our mission and can contribute to sustainability.

In summary, our financial sustainability plan is focused on a combination of income diversification, partnerships, community support, and cost-efficiency. This phased approach ensures that we are continuously adapting and refining our strategy to secure the long-term financial sustainability of our project, even as we operate within the grant period provided by MIT Solve.