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ELSA-PBSP's Feeding Program reaches 8,723 school kids

June 18, 2007

Last school year of 2006, a total of 8,723 school children benefited from ELSA's Supplemental Feeding and Health Improvement program in the province of Lanao del Sur, Mindanao. Spearheaded by the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP), the program aids malnourished children through feeding and de-worming for the whole school year.

The thousands of grades 1 to 6 pupils from over 23 public schools in Lanao del Sur were fed five times a week with a nutritious meal of corn-soya blend (CSB), vegetable oil, and sugar in their own schools. Parents, Teachers, and Community Associations (PTCAs), and school administrators took charge in the preparations and in serving the meals. Students also receive a rice ration five days a week.

Partners from the local government provided support and assistance throughout the program. The local Department of Education and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) helped in the identification of feeding areas, coordination with participating schools, and securing the food commodities. UNICEF provided de-worming tablets while the Provincial Health Office administered the de-worming sessions and held regular lectures on health and nutrition in the communities.

Some member companies of PBSP also provided a complimentary initiative to the feeding program by providing vitamin supplements and other food products.

ELSA's Supplemental Feeding and Health Improvement Program provides supplemental feeding and de-worming for malnourished and underprivileged schoolchildren throughout the whole school year to prevent frequent drop-outs, increase enrollment, and encourage participation among students.

Romel Santos