Mennillo Haran A, El Rayess Fadya
student at The University of Rhode Island.
Assistant Professor (Clinical), Director of Global Health and Associate Residency Director in the Department of Family Medicine, Alpert Medical School of Brown University.
R I Med J (2013). 2014 Apr 1;97(4):19-23.
Malnutrition is a major cause of childhood illness, stunted growth and death worldwide. A supplemental nutrition program for young children was implemented in Guachipilincito, Honduras. This study explores early successes and challenges to implementing this program.
We conducted a qualitative, semi-structured, key informant interview study in 2012. Two researchers analyzed interview transcripts using the immersion/crystallization method of qualitative analysis.
The program evolved from addressing macronutrient deficiency in 2010, to targeting micronutrient deficiency. Successes include: consistent food distribution, positive community feedback and establishment of a Honduran community oversight committee. Challenges include: tracking growth data, sharing of food among family members, and long-term sustainability. Next steps include: obtaining stable funding, utilizing local food suppliers, and increasing crop diversity. Participants identified cultural and economic factors contributing to challenges with these steps.
While the feeding program is having successes, it still faces many challenges. Additional interviews with Honduran-based staff, community leaders and program recipients may identify the best ways to address these challenges.
