Noor Academy currently educates and homes 18 boys, ranging in ages from 8-18. Thrive began daily food deliveries to Noor in 2019. The school aims to give children the support they need to develop into productive members of society achieving whatever dreams they may have. In addition to the academic curriculum, the school places emphasis on developing passions and hobbies through enrichment opportunities in sports, art and foreign language.
Over six million Bangladeshi children suffer from hunger; 54% are stunted, 36% are underweight, and 12% experience wasting (FAO, 2017). Malnutrition is rampant among school-aged children who often come to school hungry which greatly hinders their learning. Providing nutritious meals not only plays a crucial role in their physical and mental health, but it also improves school attendance rates which directly impacts educational attainment.
Thrive's daily healthy meal deliveries provide school children in Bangladesh a head start to the most crucial part of their day, which allows them to better focus on learning. Each simple, nutritious meal consists of a hard-boiled egg or nuts, a banana, and a pesticide-free, seasonal fruit or vegetable, and milk once a week. With a full belly, children are much more attentive and ready and eager to learn.
Directors and teachers of schools that benefit from Thrive's feeding program have consistently reported higher attendance rates and a greater desire to learn. These factors will have a direct impact on academic performance and may also decrease the likelihood of dropping out. By continuing their education and growing into contributing members of society, children have the potential to break the cycle of poverty.
