Salaan, Zamboanga City – A brighter and healthier future awaits the children of Barangay Salaan as the HAPAGASA 120-Day Feeding Program officially launches, spearheaded by the Ateneo de Zamboanga University (AdZU) – Social Development Unit (SDU) through the Center for Community Extension Services (CCES). This initiative aims to combat malnutrition and improve the overall well-being of the most vulnerable children in the community.
Barangay Salaan has been identified as having a high prevalence of underweight and wasted children under five years old in the area. Recognizing the urgent need for intervention, the HAPAGASA Feeding Program will provide consistent, nutritious meals for 120 days, ensuring that children receive the essential nutrients they need for growth and development.
The program is a collaborative effort involving Barangay Salaan officials, the local health center, schools, 4Ps beneficiaries, and the wider community. In addition to meal provision, HAPAGASA integrated nutrition education, health monitoring, and community engagement, aiming for long-term, sustainable solutions to childhood malnutrition.
“The success of this initiative lies in the power of community collaboration. Together, we can make a difference—ensuring that no child in Barangay Salaan goes hungry and that every child has the opportunity to grow healthier and stronger,” said Dir. Loreta, highlighting the collective effort behind the program.
Throughout the 120-day period, the program will not only provide food but also empower parents and caregivers with knowledge of proper nutrition and food security, ensuring that the benefits extend beyond the program’s duration. Health workers and volunteers will also conduct regular health assessments to monitor the children’s progress.
With strong community involvement and continued support from stakeholders, the HAPAGASA Feeding Program is set to create a lasting impact in the fight against malnutrition in Barangay Salaan. The initiative stands as a beacon of hope for the community, proving that through unity and shared responsibility, no child should have to suffer from hunger.
