More than 25% of children in South Africa suffer from stunting, indicating that their physical and cognitive development is not progressing as it should. This is a result of malnutrition, particularly in pregnancy and infancy. The prevalence of stunting is even higher among children from disadvantaged households. This is a cause for concern in South Africa because stunting can have detrimental effects on a child’s future. Children who experience stunting are less likely to complete their education, more prone to poverty and unemployment as adults, and face an increased risk of chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension in adulthood. On average, they also have a shorter lifespan compared to non-stunted children.
Recognizing the critical importance of the period from pregnancy to a child’s second birthday, known as the “first thousand days,” Flourish exists to offer classes that empower mothers with the necessary support and current knowledge to adopt healthy behaviors that will enable their children to thrive and flourish in the future.
Thanks to the generous support from the Lesedi Solar Park Trust, Flourish empowers both new and expectant mothers by providing them with reliable information on maternal and child health. This knowledge plays a pivotal role in driving positive changes in their behavior, enabling them to become more responsive and self-assured in their roles as parents and in their personal well-being. Additionally, mothers participating in the program receive a nutritious snack during the sessions. Antenatal mothers receive a baby bag containing essential items for themselves and their babies, while postnatal mothers are provided with a baby blanket and a book. These provisions are aimed at further enhancing the well-being of both mothers and their children.
Furthermore, these classes play a crucial role in promoting unity within the community. By fostering a strong sense of sisterhood, mothers are encouraged to provide support and uplift one another. Flourish recently marked the completion of a cycle with baby showers for participating mothers, celebrating the knowledge and empowerment these women now possess to raise a healthy new generation.