After a successful pilot project in 2022, our Chiclayo site in Peru partnered with Chalice to extend its nutrition program for vulnerable children in two communities.
Today, 80 malnourished children come to one of two dining halls for a nutritious lunch, five days a week.
One year in, thanks to your endowment’s support, the children are thriving!
Every meal covers every food group, featuring avocados, chicken, spinach, rice, and tangerines. Cooks are introducing fresh, natural ingredients to slowly reduce ultra-processed food intake. Parents are learning the importance of fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables—and their positive impact on household economies.
Visible health results:
- When they began: 36 children (45%) had ‘normal’ nutritional status
- After one year: 48 children (60%)
A group of mothers organize and prepare menus and cook lunches on a rotational basis. Accompanied by a nutritionist, they gather for meetings to plan, organize, make decisions, and commit to keeping the program running effectively.
Mini Chef workshops: Children and parents learn to prepare simple, nutritious dishes featuring fresh produce. Each workshop begins with an explanation of the nutritional value of the ingredients. The children and parents alike love to talk, laugh, and share meals together.
The nutrition program has boosted school attendance, concentration, and grades!
Children can also learn about nutrition through playing and cooking—play is critical to childhood development and lifelong learning.
Thank you for making this possible! Your support is changing lives, one meal at a time.
