EngenderHealth Newsletter | August 2025
Together, We Are Doing Something for Reproductive Health
At EngenderHealth, we don’t just witness challenges—we act. From ensuring safe births to expanding access to contraception and breaking the silence around gender-based violence, our work shows what’s possible when care meets action.
This month, our stories highlight how people around the world are stepping up, innovating, and leading change in sexual and reproductive health and rights. Together, we’re proving that even in the face of setbacks, we can do something that matters.
Help Us Take Action
The U.S. government is preparing to destroy more than $10 million worth of unused contraceptives—supplies funded by USAID and intended for communities around the world. More than 80 members of Congress are demanding an investigation into the State Department’s decision to destroy these supplies.
So far, the contraceptives have not been sent to France for incineration, and there is still time to ensure they reach the health systems that need them most. We believe these supplies should be redirected, not destroyed.
Sign our petition urging the U.S. Department of State to stop the destruction and deliver these life-saving contraceptives to communities reeling from the loss of USAID support.
Global Impact
Two teens. One conversation. A ripple of change.
In Bihar, India, Nitu and Prashant are sparking cultural change—one small step at a time. Their leadership is inspiring families, classmates, and neighbors to talk about education, child marriage, and girls’ rights. Learn more…
At 17, Emilienne reclaimed her future
Pressured into a forced marriage in Burkina Faso, Emilienne found support, safety, and her voice through survivor-centered programs. Today, she’s thriving, earning her own income, and standing up for other girls in her community. Meet Emilienne…
Bulcha is breaking the silence on periods
Bulcha Nasir, a Grade 8 student in Ethiopia, is showing that menstrual hygiene is everyone’s issue. With guidance from EngenderHealth, he’s supporting his sister and encouraging his community to break the silence around menstruation. Read Bulcha’s story…
Want to see how real people are stepping up and making a difference in advancing sexual and reproductive health around the world? Read more Impact Stories on EngenderHealth’s website.
New Funding Opportunity
Saving Mothers’ Lives, One Surgery at a Time
Too many mothers die giving birth during the world’s most common surgery. EngenderHealth, in partnership with Ariadne Labs, is piloting a Cesarean Safety Checklist in India that could save lives, improve care, and scale nationwide.
This project was nearly lost when USAID funding was cut—but it’s now on the “Urgent and Vetted” list by Project Resource Optimization (PRO), a trusted initiative hosted by the Center for Global Development.
We’re seeking $950K to bring this pilot to life. One-time investment. Global impact. Learn more and fund the pilot…
Stay Informed: Latest News and Resources
Protecting SRHR in the Context of Fertility Decline
Falling fertility rates are fueling claims that family planning is no longer necessary, reinforcing existing pushback against contraceptive access and broader reproductive health efforts.
EngenderHealth and PRB are leading a new initiative to keep reproductive rights and contraceptive access at the center of global health priorities. Learn how this initiative is shaping the future of SRHR…
Project Tarunya: Youth Leadership Driving Lasting Change in Bihar
Over 1 million adolescents in Bihar gained access to vital health services and leadership opportunities through Project Tarunya. By strengthening local health systems, fostering government collaboration, and amplifying youth voices, the project created a sustainable model for adolescent health. Sitamarhi, one of the intervention districts, was recognized as a WHO Learning District—evidence of the program’s success and potential to scale.
Though Project Tarunya has ended, its legacy lives on through the youth and communities it empowered. Read the full story…
These articles informed and inspired us—we hope they do the same for you.
- Guttmacher analysis: U.S. policy shifts undermine global sexual and reproductive health and rights…
- Global Health: Science and Practice reaffirms commitment to open-access future amid USAID funding cuts…
- The Guardian: Debilitating consequences in Uganda after USAID cuts…
What You Can Do
Big change starts with small steps—and every action you take helps move us closer to a more just and healthy world.
Here are a few ways you can do something today:
- Activate Your DAF or Workplace Giving: Double your impact with matching donations and help bring reproductive health and rights to the people who need them most.
- Use Your Voice: Follow @EngenderHealth across all social media channels and share our posts on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Every like, comment, and share spreads the message and inspires action.
- Shop With Purpose: Grab a Let’s Do Something tote or sticker. Every purchase supports life-saving care and spreads awareness about reproductive health and rights.
- Share the Impact: Forward this newsletter, browse past editions, or invite a friend to sign up.
Your Support Makes a Difference
By donating to EngenderHealth, you help us drive impactful, gender-equitable programs that promote health, equality, and rights. Your support enables us to protect sexual and reproductive rights as fundamental human rights, ensuring that everyone has access to the care they deserve.
We’d love to hear from you about what you want to see in future newsletters. Contact us at social@engenderhealth.org.
This newsletter was originally shared over email on August 27, 2025.
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