Leah is a one-year-old girl from the Philippines. She lives in a bamboo house with her parents, who are fishermen. Leah loves to play games with her sister. After noticing a consistent decrease in her appetite and her emaciated appearance, Leah’s family sought assistance.
Leah was taken to our medical partner, International Care Ministries (ICM), where she was diagnosed with acute malnutrition. Malnutrition is a treatable condition, but if left untreated, it can lead to developmental issues and can be fatal.
ICM has decided to provide Leah with a home-based feeding program. The program provides nutrient-enriched food packs so Leah can regain normal weight and achieve optimum physical and mental development. In addition to the food packs, medical staff and community volunteers will make weekly visits to monitor Leah’s progress. During their visits, the staff and volunteers will educate Leah’s family members about proper nutrition, sanitation, hygiene, and organic vegetable gardening.
The program is scheduled to start on February 23. ICM is requesting $268 in funding. Leah’s mother is eager to have Leah start the program and get back on track.