Shelter International was founded in 2012 after Hanna Blaney personally interviewed over 1oo widows in rural Andhra and identifying a need for a support structure widows in this area. Due to the scientific background and training of Shelter’s Board of Directors, Shelter aims to take an evidence-based approach to its programs.

Shelter International was granted 501 (3) (c) tax-exempt status in 2013 and began fundraising for its projects.

After identifying an need for an improvement in feminine hygiene in the area, in June 2014, Shelter launched its first program, the Sanitary Napkin Project (SNP). The SNP currently employs 12 widows to manufacture sanitary napkins that are then distributed at a low cost to the area’s women and girls.