35 Atul Foundation | Annual Report 2024-25 | The First 1,000 Days project focuses on empowering and educating pregnant women and lactating mothers about the importance of proper nutrition, healthcare and caregiving practices. The project promotes the health and nutrition of mothers and young children during the critical first 1,000 days of a child, from conception to the age of two. This period is widely recognised as a window of opportunity for laying the foundation for the long-term health, development and well-being of a child. • trained 533 healthcare practitioners to provide specialised care and nutritional support to mothers and children during the crucial period • counselled 304 pregnant and lactating women on breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices • invited to serve as an NGO member on the District Nutrition Committee, contributing to policy discussions and local strategy development related to maternal and child nutrition The project team met Preeti Nayka when she was 19 years old and in the fourth month of her pregnancy. Due to her young age early marriage and lack of general awareness, she had very little knowledge about pregnancy care, nutrition or health. Her haemoglobin was just 9 g/dl and she was underweight. She showed no visible signs of pregnancy and was unaware of the importance of care during this period. She was gradually counselled on the importance of maternal nutrition and pregnancy care. She followed the advice sincerely, took iron and folic acid tablets regularly and included iron-rich foods in her diet. Her haemoglobin improved to 11.1g/dl, leading to a normal delivery. Her baby was born with a healthy weight of 2.4 kg. After birth, Preeti was guided on breastfeeding techniques. As a result, she and her baby, both, are now in good health. She continues to maintain a nutritious diet, ensuring the well-being of herself and her child. Other projects Project Location Impact promotion of nutrition gardens in tribal areas Valsad 100 tribal families upgradation of sports infrastructure and equipment Atul youth from 10 villages provision of medical equipment Valsad patients of Valsad district First 1000 Days promoting nutrition, maternal and child health project Initiated in 2023 1,216 health practitioners | 622 mothers HEALTH 34 | Health
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