Every child deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, and dream. For 12-year-old Igans, having access to nutritious food every day has become an important part of building that future.
A New Beginning for Igans
Before arriving at NPH Dominican Republic, Igans experienced periods of food insecurity and irregular meals. For a growing child, not having consistent access to nutritious food can affect physical growth, learning, the immune system, and emotional well-being. Today, Igans starts every morning with a healthy breakfast and receives three balanced meals a day through NPH’s Health and Wellbeing Program. Among his favorite foods are fresh mangoes, avocados, and coconut bananas, many of which are grown on the NPH farm. Having enough nutritious food means more than simply satisfying hunger. It gives Igans the energy to learn, play, grow, and enjoy his childhood, while building a stronger foundation for his future.
Why Child Nutrition Is Important
The Dominican Republic has made significant progress in reducing hunger, but malnutrition remains a challenge. Poverty, rising food costs, unequal access to healthy foods, and limited nutrition education can make it difficult for vulnerable families to maintain a balanced diet. Children are particularly affected. During the early years of life, good nutrition supports healthy physical and brain development, strengthens the immune system, and contributes to learning and emotional well-being.
Feeding Children, Building a Future
At NPH Dominican Republic, the Health and Well-being Program provides three nutritious meals a day to our children. Fresh produce from our farm helps ensure balanced meals while helping children develop healthy eating habits. For Igans and many other children at NPH, every meal represents more than just food. It is nutrition, stability, care, and an investment in a more promising future.
