Vincencia Toma, a resident of Radamata Village in Kota Tambulaka District, South West Sumba, has benefited greatly from the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program. As a pregnant mother with a four-year-old child, she shared how the program has positively impacted their daily lives. Previously, they had to make do with whatever they could find for breakfast. However, since the MBG program started, her child now eagerly finishes every meal provided. Vincencia, who has been receiving free meals for the past nine days, praised the tastiness and nutritional value of the meals for her child. She also mentioned how the program has helped improve their family’s eating habits and made it easier to manage food distribution throughout the day.
Being nine months pregnant, Vincencia is one of many pregnant and breastfeeding mothers benefiting from the MBG nutrition service kitchens in her village. She appreciates the government’s initiative to provide free and nutritious food for rural mothers and children, emphasizing the positive impact it has on ensuring kids receive meals rich in protein and variety. Vincencia expressed her hope for the program to continue long-term, believing in its significance for community health improvement.
Operated by the Tambolaka Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG), the MBG program in Southwest Sumba aims to offer meals to schools and health posts, with a special focus on pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers. By using locally sourced ingredients and prioritizing well-balanced nutrition, the program aims to address health issues and reduce stunting rates in the region. Vincencia’s experience serves as a testament to how the MBG program is positively impacting the lives of many families in South West Sumba.
