Fighting child malnutrition in poor areas of Peru

In vulnerable communities in Southern Lima, pregnancy and early childhood often unfold amid uncertainty, limited access to quality services, and persistent risk of malnutrition. In 2025, United Way Perú walked alongside families during this critical stage, providing guidance, accompaniment, and practical tools to protect children’s development from the very beginning.

This year, 102 pregnant women received personalized support through home visits and close follow up. As a result, 91% completed at least six prenatal check ups, 94% of pregnancies resulted in full term births, and 89% of babies were born at a healthy weight. These outcomes reflect the power of timely information, consistent encouragement, and trust built over time.

Our commitment continued beyond birth. We supported 93 children under the age of three through a flexible model combining home visits and virtual support. Among participating families, 72% attended all scheduled growth and development check ups, and childhood anemia was reduced from 62.4% to 17.0%. Each percentage represents a child with a stronger body, greater protection, and improved opportunities to thrive.

We also strengthened caregivers and community actors, promoting early learning, effective communication, and quality of day care services that create an enabling environment for healthy development.

Challenges remain. Adherence to iron supplementation continues to require intensified counseling and follow up, and structural barriers still affect families’ daily realities. Yet this year reaffirmed that early, sustained accompaniment changes life trajectories.

This work is possible thanks to the collaboration of corporate partners and individual supporters. Every contribution helps us reach one more family at the most decisive moment of a child’s life.

Together, we are building healthier beginnings and brighter futures for Peru’s children.

With gratitude,
United Way Perú

During the third quarter of 2025, our work to prevent child malnutrition and strengthen early development in Southern Lima continued to grow. Thanks to the commitment of our team and partners, more families are receiving the guidance and tools they need to build healthier futures.

Here’s a snapshot of our impact from July to September 2025:

95 families are now receiving ongoing support to improve child nutrition, feeding and developmental practices.

25 new pregnant women joined our prenatal health and nutrition program this quarter, helping ensure healthier pregnancies and babies.

1 additional socio-emotional support session was delivered for families and early education professionals.

14 educational workshops were held with directors, teachers, early childhood promoters, and parents, strengthening community knowledge and involvement.

We are also pleased to share a video testimonial from one of the mothers, who describes how the program has helped her and her child. Her story is a meaningful reminder of the real-life impact your support makes possible.

We continue to reach more families and children who need it the most. Your generosity helps break the cycle of malnutrition and poverty - one child, one family, one community at a time.

With gratitude,
United Way Perú

Links:

• A mother's testimony