“The first 1000 days lasts a lifetime”
We are proud of our “First 1000 Days” program:
In reviewing the evidence about what works and what’s needed to ensure children have the best possible start in life, we have implemented a program to support maternal and child health and wellbeing needs during the vital first 1000 days of life (from conception until a child’s second birthday).
Our main areas of focus are:
- INVESTING in the ‘partnership’ between a mother and her child – the first and best step in ensuring healthy children, prosperous families and strong communities.
- Providing access and support for the “LIFESAVING” SIX:
• Iron / Folate • Breastfeeding • Complementary feeding • Vitamin A • Zinc • Hygiene •
- KEEPING GIRLS IN SCHOOL
Better educated girls have fewer, healthier, better nourished babies.
The First 1000 Days Program in more detail:
We assemble and distribute packs for pregnant women and those who have recently given birth in Pouk and Varin Districts as part of our “First 1000 Days Program”. Each pack contains:
-
- Multivitamins (for mother)
- Vegetable seeds (especially green leafy varieties)
- Mosquito Net
- Baby book and / or toy
- Soap, towels and face washers
- Days for Girls kit (from Days For Girls Yarra Valley Chapter)
- Blanket and beanie for mother
- Reusable water bottle, cup and food container
- Plastic tub (used for baby bathing, washing etc)
- Lightweight clothing for baby
- Knitted / cotton hats for newborn
- Lightweight wraps and blankets for baby
- Reusable fabric nappies
- All put together in a beautiful hand made fabric bag.
We invite any knitters or sewing fans to knit / sew lightweight baby hats, wraps and blankets. We also need donations of flannel fabric and volunteers to sew nappies for these packs. If you can help with fabric, knitting or sewing please contact us!
We also need donations of packets of vegetable seeds (especially green / leafy vegetables), bottles of multivitamins (especially those targeted at pregnant and breastfeeding women) and tubs of nutritional supplements such as “Ensure”.
