The city’s Health Services Office (HSO) is inviting the public to join the Adopt-A-Child program as sponsors to help ensure a steady supply of healthy food to beneficiaries aged 0 to 59 months old.

“The activity traditionally provided food and basic commodities to malnourished children only during the holiday season, but it is being extended to a longer term, which is a sustainable effort to address child malnutrition all year round,” Lealyn Catiyan, Nutrition Officer III of the HSO, said in a media interview on Tuesday.

Catiyan said the sponsorship program runs for six months, aiming to improve the nutritional status of children, 0 to 59 months old; support access to vital nutrition and health services; foster community and private sector engagement in child-focused interventions; and promote awareness and shared responsibility among families for sustainable child development.

The Department of Health considers a child’s first 1,000 days as an important stage in life, as it will determine the child’s health condition and status as he or she grows older.

Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, city health office chief, said the sponsor will provide the beneficiary with a support package, according to the child’s needs, based on the profile to be provided by the HSO.

“There is no minimum or maximum cost for the sponsorship, and the basics for nutrition and food security, health, education, and other services, such as referral to livelihood and other interventions, are covered,” she said.

The child’s parents will be required to attend health and nutrition classes, lectures, or wellness sessions to ensure that the program’s goals are achieved.

Individuals or groups interested in sponsoring one or more vulnerable child/children may get in touch with Catiyan through cellphone number 0995-883-3153 or email baguiocitynutritioncommittee@gmail.com/. (PNA)