By Corinne Larsen/Lonny Ward | Assistant/Field Director
Did you know that in Peru 67% of newborns would be diagnosed with anemia (an iron deficiency) before the age of 1? Although this percentage decreases as the children get older it is still a critical problem. Jose, like 1 in every 3 children in Peru, struggles with anemia and malnutrition. The lack of nutrients has stunted his growth and impairs his ability to stay awake, pay attention, and retain information. The anemia causes him to be light headed and weak, sometimes so extreme he can't go to school. The enveloping weakness that he feels is frustrating and endangers his future as he can't attend school regularly to gain his education and play with his friends.
In Peru, anemia is a major public health problem especially in the rural areas where approximately 50% of children are affected. Community leaders have identified this as a critical issue and partnered with CHOICE Humanitarian to solve this issue. Chickens provide meat and eggs which are a healthy source of iron that is easily digestible and solves the anemia problem. CHOICE technicians have trained the community members how to raise chickens and build coops. Using generous donations, CHOICE was able to provide over 400 chickens to the community to improve the overall level of nutrition and decrease anemia numbers.
CHOICE Peru focused the training specifically on the women and mothers since their family’s health is their direct concern. Training and educating the mothers gives them the understanding of what is debilitating them and their children and enables them to raise a healthy family. This training and gift of chickens ensures sustainability as it is a practice and understanding that can be passed onto future generations.
Here in the United States we have been able to effectively tackle anemia, we can easily solve this devastating problem in Peru as well. You can help us provide more chickens by donating to this cause. As global citizens we can overcome this and the many other effects of multidimensional poverty. Join us in making this world a better place!
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