Baguio city: The city's Health Services Office (HSO) is calling on the public to participate in the Adopt-A-Child program as sponsors to provide a consistent supply of nutritious food to beneficiaries aged 0 to 59 months.

According to Philippines News Agency, the initiative, traditionally offering food and basic commodities to malnourished children during the holiday season, is now being extended to address child malnutrition throughout the year. Lealyn Catiyan, Nutrition Officer III of the HSO, noted that the sponsorship program will run for six months. The program's objectives include improving the nutritional status of young children, enhancing access to essential nutrition and health services, and promoting community and private sector involvement in child-centered interventions. Additionally, the program aims to increase awareness and shared responsibility among families for sustainable child development.

The Department of Health emphasizes the significance of a child's first 1,000 days, as this period is crucial in determining their future health condition and status. Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, the city health office chief, explained that sponsors will provide beneficiaries with a support package tailored to each child's needs, based on profiles provided by the HSO. There are no set costs for sponsorship, covering essentials such as nutrition, food security, health, education, and other services like referrals to livelihood and additional interventions.

To ensure the program's success, parents of the beneficiaries will be required to attend health and nutrition classes, lectures, or wellness sessions. Those interested in sponsoring one or more vulnerable children can contact Lealyn Catiyan at 0995-883-3153 or via email at [email protected].