The Socorro de lo Alto Child Survival Program (CSP) serves little ones through the age of 3 years and their primary caregivers, as well as expectant mothers. Each month, mothers and children receive nutritious food, including rice, fruits and vegetables, as well as vitamin supplements and medical care as needed. Caregivers receive child-care training that includes home and personal hygiene, food preparation, disease prevention and first aid.

Expectant mothers are trained on prenatal health, childbirth and newborn care. Caregivers learn how to engage their children in games and activities that provide physical, emotional, mental and spiritual development. Program workers make regular home visits for one-on-one training, helping mothers apply the skills they've learned. Program staff members monitor the health and progress of mothers and children and ensure that each child receives timely immunizations and checkups.

Classes in literacy — as well as workshops that teach such income-generating skills as embroidery, handicrafts, dressmaking and tailoring — are offered to caregivers. Mothers also take part in Bible studies and other gatherings as they grow spiritually and socially.

Guasmo Sur is located in the city of Guayaqil, the largest city in Ecuador. A limited number of jobs has led to an unemployment rate of more than 30 percent. Most working adults serve as maids, carpenters or day laborers. Only one in three children will graduate from high school, and there are no opportunities for vocational training.

Families in Gusmo Sur often can't afford medical care for their children. Common health problems among children are respiratory infections, parasites, acute diarrhea, urinary infections and malnutrition.

Your prayers and contributions for the Socorro de lo Alto 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.