The Raul Porras Barrenechea Child Survival Program (CSP) serves little ones through age 3 and their caregivers, as well as expectant mothers. In addition to receiving nutritional food supplies and vitamins, parents also receive baby supplies. Caregivers attend parenting classes where they learn about preventive health care, home and personal hygiene and food preparation.

Pregnant mothers receive prenatal care and have access to medical assistance based on need. Caregivers of young children learn how to prepare nutritious meals, monitor proper hygiene, and encourage the developmental activities children need in order to grow physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. Classes in income-generating skills like handicrafts, cosmetology and sewing are offered to caregivers. Mothers also take part together in Bible studies and prayer groups as they grow spiritually and socially.

Project workers visit the homes of caregivers and children twice a month to monitor health issues and the progress of program participants. They also help ensure that children and caregivers receive critical nutritional support, timely immunizations and medical assistance as needed.

The Carabayllo district is located on the west coast of Peru, near Lima. The homes in this community are made of discarded plastic and cardboard – flammable materials that lead to quick-spreading fires. It has been difficult to bring electricity to this hilly area, and only recently have water and drainage systems been installed.

More than 70 percent of adults are unemployed, while gangs, prostitution and violence are common in Carabayllo. Those who find legal work usually set up stalls in the crowded market, and few make more than U.S. $5 a day. With this extreme poverty there are few schools or libraries, and most teachers lack training. Most adults are illiterate and place little importance on their own children's education.

Although there are four doctors within walking distance of Carabayllo, only 20 percent have access to medical care. Most cannot afford medical fees, and the children of the community continue to suffer from bronchitis and other respiratory infections. 

Your prayers and tax-deductible donations for the Sharon 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 project today.