Health & Nutrition

In many areas where we work, women are the primary caregivers of children and contribute equally — if not more — to the family income. Yet social and cultural norms mean that women in these areas have fewer resources and decision-making power. Our work in health and nutrition begins by identifying and addressing these systemic inequities. Raising awareness of nutritional best practices isn’t enough if the behaviors that create barriers aren’t also changed.

We work with local leaders and groups who can help motivate those changes with their friends, families, and neighbors, so that all members of a community can have access to essential health services, food security, and the support to take care of themselves and their children with optimal caring practices.

Local and national health systems are the main sources for two important nutrition services: treating acute malnutrition, and providing key nutrient supplements for women in children. Health workers are also key players in both promoting overall healthy habits and responding to emergencies.

Beyond clinics and hospitals, community healthcare workers and volunteers are essential — especially in rural areas where the closest facility could be a days-long journey. Concern’s role is to build the skills and capacities of hospital and clinic staff, as well as those of community workers and volunteers. We also work on finding sustainable processes that allow lifesaving interventions to be delivered via governments and communities, at local and national levels.

Hunger doesn’t happen in isolation. Many of the causes of malnutrition and other health issues cut across sectors. Integrated programs streamline our efforts, as well as those of communities and governments. Sharing resources through joint planning and coordination means we’re able to do more with less, while maintaining effectiveness.

Our health and nutrition work often involves projects that combine one or more of the following areas of focus: Agriculture and climate response, maternal and child health, water, sanitation, and hygiene, education, and livelihoods.