Nutrition Initiatives
Childhood malnutrition is devastating in India, and it severely affects the population’s health. Over 50% of children under the age of 5 suffer from stunted growth (61 million children are currently affected, as per one estimate).
The prevalence of childhood anemia is also alarmingly high, and adolescent girls often face the harshest consequences. Chronic malnutrition is particularly challenging for females due to their higher dietary needs a d lower access to food at three critical life stages (pregnancy, birth to two years, and adolescence).
There are many barriers to proper nutrition for young women and children in India, including economic difficulties, preferential feeding practices, lack of knowledge of healthy diets, and lack of access to various foodstuffs.
The state of Uttarakhand, where Himalayan Naari operates, has higher rates of malnutrition than that of India as a whole.
Given these facts, the Himalayan Education Foundation assessed the nutritional status of the children at Himalayan Inter College and the women at Himalayan Naari. At Naari, we identified several members who were malnourished or at high risk. We recognized that our pregnant and nursing mothers needed nutritional support.
In 2019, we began a supplemental feeding program providing a daily meal to our nursing and pregnant mothers and women identified as malnourished. Three healthy babies were born and the mothers are thriving.
Dental Care
The rural poor often lack dental care. Several Naari members have had significant difficulties that impact their overall health and ability to eat. Naari is providing them with assistance in obtaining dental care.
Emergency Medical Care
Medical care is difficult to obtain in the mountain areas.
The nearest hospital to Naari is eight hours away. Transportation and adequate care for seriously ill members are expensive and difficult to obtain. Naari has an emergency medical fund to support members in extreme need.
Feminine Care
As part of our focus on health and sustainability, Naari (with the leadership of Sewpportive Friends) has conducted workshops teaching members how to make washable, reusable sanitary pads. Washable, reusable pads are available for sale in the Women’s Center.
JOIN HANDS AND VOLUNTEER WITH US
We welcome long-term volunteers who are passionate about creating a more sustainable world for the Himalayan women and their communities. If you are interested in working with us on site in contributing your knowledge and skills for making a difference in the lives of Himalayan Naari community, please contact Dr.Kathleen Bollerud at info@himalayan-naari.in