Problem

Malnutrition is a growing problem for Palestinian families, particularly in Gaza. Subsequently, many children in Gaza are too badly fed and weak to enjoy a happy, healthy childhood. A study by Johns Hopkins University, CARE and ANERA found that anemia and malnutrition are widespread among up to one quarter of children less than five years of age. Families have been hit especially hard since the outbreak of recent violence and Israeli restrictions on movement.

The Gift

In an effort to slow the growth of malnutrition, ANERA initiated the Milk for Preschoolers (MfP) project which supplies fortified milk and high energy biscuits in preschools in needy communities in Gaza. Each child receives a box of milk and a package of high energy wafers every school day under the supervision of their teachers. The program is also working to raise nutrition awareness of children, their families, and preschool teachers. The MfP project currently helps over 20,000 needy preschoolers in Gaza.