Project HEALTH (Help Everyone to have Active Life to become Healthy

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Eating a balanced diet is vital for good health and well being. Food provides our bodies with energy, protein, essential fats, vitamins and minerals to live, grow, and function properly. Pupils need these essential nutrients to be able to perform well in the school. Thus, programs and projects that will improve pupils' nutritional status are proposed and implemented. Based from the result of the evaluation of clinic teacher in Tambo Munti Kulit Elementary School, it was noted that 13 or 7.74% out of 168 pupils were undernourished. Furthermore, these 13 undernourished pupils were identified as wasted and severely wasted. Due to the situation, it was agreed by the CI Team to help the pupils to be nourished individuals, they were to be the focus of Project HEALTH.

METHODS

Project HEALTH aimed to reduce the number of nutritionally deficient pupils for at least 75% of 13 under nourished to become nourished pupils by the end of December 2018. The team utilized different interventions such as using fresh and nutritious fruits and vegetables from Gulayan sa Paaralan to support Supplementary Feeding (snacks/lunch), intensified monitoring of School Based Feeding Program, and selling of nutritious foods in school. Another factor is indulging the pupils to regular exercises like walking, dancing, and etc.

RESULTS

The results showed a great success of the program, 10 pupils or 76.92% from 13 under nourished pupils had improved their nutritional status. This exceeded the 75% expected target.

DISCUSSIONS

Utilizing Gulayan sa Paaralan, giving supplementary feeding (snacks), implementing the School Based Feeding Program, and selling of nutritious foods in school contributed to the success of the project. Another factor that contributed to this achievement is the awareness of the parents on their children's nutritional status. After the study, it was suggested to continue the implementation of Project HEALTH in the next school year.