Vincencia Toma, a resident of Radamata Village in Kota Tambulaka District, South West Sumba, shares how the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program has made a positive impact on her daily life as a pregnant mother with a four-year-old child. Before the program, they would have whatever they could find for breakfast, but since receiving meals from MBG, her child now finishes every meal provided. Vincencia, who has been benefiting from the program for nine days, appreciates the tastiness and nutritional value of the meals for her child. She also acknowledges how the program has helped improve their family’s eating habits, making it easier to manage food distribution throughout the day.
As a nine-month pregnant woman, Vincencia is part of the many pregnant and breastfeeding mothers who benefit directly from the MBG nutrition service kitchens in her village. She expresses gratitude for the government’s effort to provide free and nutritious food for rural mothers and children. Vincencia emphasizes the positive impact of the program in ensuring children receive adequate protein and a variety of meals. She hopes for the program to continue long-term, recognizing its significance in community health improvement.
The MBG program in Southwest Sumba, managed by the Tambolaka Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG), aims to supply meals to schools and health posts, focusing on pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers. Through the use of locally sourced ingredients and a commitment to well-balanced nutrition, the program addresses health issues and works towards reducing stunting rates in the region. Vincencia’s experience showcases how the MBG program is making a meaningful difference in the lives of families in South West Sumba.
