Ghana

Caring for Women and Children Through Improved Nutrition

As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we have a responsibility to care for all of God’s children around the world. One of the ways we make the biggest impact is by prioritizing the health and well-being of women and children. Through global food security, immunization, education, refugee response, and maternal and newborn care initiatives, our goal is to help children reach their full potential.

Relief Society General President, Camille N. Johnson

Introduction to Child Nutrition

Mother and Baby
The Importance of Nutrition
Many children around the world suffer from the effects of malnutrition. Healthy nutrition is essential to proper brain, body, and immune system development, especially from the time of conception to ages 2–3. If a child does not receive proper nutrition during this time, the child’s brain and body will not develop as they should.
Comprehensive Care for Children
The Church has focused efforts to help more children have access to comprehensive nutrition care, including nutritious foods, safe drinking water, supported access to local clinical services, and other factors that help a child meet their growth potential.

Organized to Care For Those in Need

The most successful nutrition programs work through grassroots efforts in local communities, particularly with the involvement of women. The Church is uniquely organized to deliver these types of solutions through ward councils, ministering, and the Relief Society. In addition, the Church works with global organizations to improve nutrition for all children in need.

See What the Church is Doing to Help

Parents with a Baby
Family Empowerment
Families work to improve their children’s nutrition. Local Church councils assist families with knowledge, resources, and support to implement nutritional best practices in their own homes.
Young child
Community Assistance
Church support at the community level is led by area leadership who knows the needs and resources of their communities best, connecting the local community to resources in their area.
Peru Media Trip 2010
Global Support
We work with humanitarian organizations to provide global support to prevent and eliminate child malnutrition from conception to age five.

Get Involved

Children face malnourishment in communities throughout the world. Use the resources below to learn more about child nutrition, how it impacts our families, and how you may be able to help.

How Can I Get Involved?

Through prayer and guidance from the Spirit, you can discover ways to help families in your community. For example, you can give a generous fast-offering, volunteer at a local food pantry, or cook a nutritious meal for a neighbor. If available in your area, you can get involved in this effort by visiting JustServe.org and searching for child nutrition or hunger related projects.

Resources for Parents and Leaders
The Church has developed several guides, offering ideas and information for both parents and leaders as they seek to support children and families.
Download the Guides Here