The CROSS Child Survival Program (CSP) serves little ones through the age of 3 years and their primary caregivers, as well as expectant mothers. In addition to receiving regular nutritious food supplements and medicine, parents also receive baby supplies, including diapers, soap and blankets. Caregivers receive child-care training that includes proper hygiene, food preparation, disease prevention and first aid.

Pregnant mothers receive prenatal care and have access to medical assistance. Caregivers of young children learn how to prepare balanced meals for their families and how to engage their children in developmental exercises that will facilitate physical, emotional, mental and spiritual growth. Caregivers attend classes in literacy, as well as learn income-generating skills like basket making, gardening and tailoring. Many mothers also come together to pray and study.

Program workers make regular home visit to monitor health issues and the progress of mothers and children. These workers also help ensure that children and caregivers receive critical nutritional support, timely immunizations and medical assistance as needed.

The CROSS Child Survival Program is located in the hills of Senji Mottur, home to approximately 1,200 residents. There are no doctors in Senji Mottur, and mothers have to travel more than 12 miles to receive obstetric care. Only 30 percent of mothers give birth in licensed hospitals.

More than 10 percent of children in this community will never see their first birthday — and those who live spend their childhoods battling typhoid fever, jaundice, viral infections, vitamin deficiencies and influenza.

Only 10 percent of children in this community will complete high school. While this community is close to Velore, a city with numerous high schools and colleges, few can afford education fees or even transportation to the neighboring community.

Your prayers and contributions for the CROSS Child Survival Program provide mothers with the knowledge and the resources to raise happy, healthy children. You can make a difference in the lives of mothers and their infant children by becoming a partner for this program today.