The first 1,000 days of a child’s life, from conception to their second birthday, are critical for healthy growth and development. Good nutrition during this period lays the foundation for lifelong health, learning and wellbeing.

Through FoodForward SA’s Mother and Child Nutrition Programme, vulnerable mothers and young children receive nutritious food support, growth monitoring and caregiver education, delivered through trusted community partners. Together, these interventions are helping families build healthier futures, one child at a time.

The programme continues to make a meaningful impact. To date, 325 children have completed the nutrition intervention, reflecting the positive outcomes that can be achieved through sustained nutritional support, caregiver education and strong community partnerships. At the same time, 152 children remain actively enrolled, highlighting both the ongoing need and the programme’s continued reach.

Building on this success, the programme expanded into the Eastern Cape on 16 July in collaboration with Grow Great and the Eastern Cape Department of Health. Three clinics in Rosedale, KwaZakhele and Booysens joined the programme, welcoming an additional 50 mothers and children who will now receive support during this critical stage of early development.

This expansion marks another important step in extending the programme to communities where access to nutrition support is limited, ensuring that more children have the opportunity to grow, thrive and reach their full potential.

While significant progress has been made, the need remains great. As household food insecurity continues to affect families across South Africa, expanding access to early nutrition interventions has never been more important.

Together with our partners and supporters, we are helping to give more children the healthy start they deserve and building stronger, healthier communities for generations to come.

Clinic Dietitian Melanie Steyn welcomed the introduction of the programme, saying:

“As healthcare professionals, we see firsthand the challenges many families face in accessing proper nutrition during the first 1,000 days. Having this programme available gives us the opportunity to offer support and nutritional care. It brings hope to families, and we can give more children the healthy start they deserve.”