More than 2,000 mothers in the Western Cape have joined a programme aimed at improving nutrition and helping prevent child stunting during pregnancy and the early stages of motherhood.
The Khulisa Care programme, which was launched in August
last year, focuses on supporting vulnerable mothers by helping them access
nutritious food and other forms of assistance.
As part of the programme, eligible mothers receive monthly
food vouchers, along with additional support aimed at improving their
well-being and helping them provide better nutrition for their children.
Child stunting remains a major concern because poor
nutrition during pregnancy and early childhood can affect a child's physical
growth and development. Providing mothers with access to food and support
during these important stages can therefore play an important role in giving
children a healthier start in life.
Western Cape Health and Wellness MEC Mireille Wenger says
supporting pregnant women and mothers is essential to the health and
development of children.
The Khulisa Care programme recognises that mothers may face
significant challenges when it comes to accessing enough nutritious food,
particularly during pregnancy and after giving birth. By providing practical
assistance, the programme aims to ease some of these pressures.
The initiative also highlights the importance of supporting
mothers before and after childbirth. A mother's nutrition and overall well-being
can have a direct impact on the health of her baby, making early intervention
an important part of preventing childhood health problems.
With more than 2,000 mothers already participating, the
programme is reaching vulnerable families across the province and providing
support at a critical time.
As the initiative continues, the focus will remain on
ensuring mothers have better access to food, information and support throughout
pregnancy and early motherhood.
For participating families, the programme is not only about
providing monthly food vouchers. It is part of a broader effort to help mothers
and children achieve better health outcomes and give young children the
opportunity to grow and develop to their full potential.
Done By: Keelyn Jardien
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