Approximately 120 babies per month between the ages of 6 months and 5 years and their mothers in Llanos del Pinal, Buena Vista, La Victoria, and Xeabaj II participate in the Nutrition Program. Local staff provide monthly education, height and weight checks, nutrition consults, various nutritional supplements, and medical treatment and referrals. Local 32 Volcanes staff and volunteers review the child’s growth and provide eggs; ground, toasted amaranth; Chispuditos; and Incaparina (a fortified corn- and soy-based product popular in Guatemala). Depending on their specific conditions, some children also receive extra zinc or iron. The babies and toddlers are particularly vulnerable to digestive and respiratory illnesses. They are especially vulnerable due to conditions of extreme poverty and their precarious living conditions. In addition to the common illnesses in Guatemala, there has also been an increase in illnesses that are harder to diagnose and treat. The program continues to need additional funds for lab tests, specialist consults, and treatments. How You Can Help: Donations -- Donations will support medical care, food, and health education in the Nutrition Program. A grant from Timmy Global Health also funds the Nutrition Program. |