MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH LITERACY

COST
$10,000.00

#BENEFICIARIES:
150 mothers in 12 communities

TRAINING:
Yes

OBJECTIVE:
To provide valuable literacy education to women with the introduction of topics about their personal health and that of their children’s through the “Learning for Life” literacy program.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
A project that has been very successful in other parts of the world, circulates throughout 12 communities in the region. Classes incorporate healthy pregnancy information, newborn health, and other women’s health topics with a beginners’ reading component. A committee of parents helps organize and facilitate the classes.

PARTNERS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
CEPS: Runs the program
Villagers: Attend the classes
Operation USA: Funds classes and transportation

RISKS:
Foreseen: Some women might be uncomfortable discussing sexual issues due to the pervasiveness of religion in the communities.
Unforeseen: Another literacy programs in one area led to confusion for the mothers, there was difficulty teaching mothers with physical or mental disabilities, there was a general disinterest in one community and low attendance rates.

RESULTS:
Planned: Teachers establish a strong relationship with the mothers, mothers attend classes regularly.
Unplanned: Great support from Parent Committees, the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports, and the United Women of Matagalpa.