Severe Acute Malnutrition and Child Development

The majority of deaths caused by malnutrition are among children under five years old, accounting for around 45% of the deaths in this age group. For those who have severe acute malnutrition repeatedly in early childhood and recover, it can cause lifelong developmental consequences.

BirthAid: Birth Life-Saving Skills

Baby wrapped in a pink blanket, wearing a blue knitted hat with eyes, held by a caregiver in a Saving Moses shirt, symbolizing care for vulnerable infants in conflict zones.

BirthAid teaches birth-lifesaving skills, that are similar to CPR- relatively easy, actionable steps that anyone can take to help save a mother or baby’s life before, during, or immediately after birth.

A Matter of Life and Death

Newborn baby in yellow hat, lying on patterned fabric, highlighting vulnerability and care in conflict zones, relevant to infant mortality and healthcare challenges.

There are few moments in life as precious, and as dangerous as giving birth. Many of us have either experienced or know someone who has experienced birth-related complications and know how scary and even life-threatening this can be.

The Many Faces of Malnutrition

Child with malnutrition symptoms, holding a green cup, displaying milk around mouth, seated next to caregiver, highlighting the impact of Severe Acute Malnutrition.

There are many faces of malnutrition, but Severe Acute Malnutrition is by far the most dangerous. If left untreated it is 100% fatal.

Stories of Impact: Vulnerable at Birth

Smiling baby in a cozy setting, representing hope and innocence amidst discussions of infant mortality and challenges in conflict zones like Afghanistan.

According to UNICEF, 2.4 million babies died in their first month of life in 2020. The majority of these deaths were preventable. Premature birth, infection, and labor and delivery complications are some of the leading causes of this incredible loss of life.

Stories of Impact- Facing Malnutrition

Children facing malnutrition and health challenges, featuring a girl in a rural setting, a baby with a caregiver, a boy holding a photo, and a newborn in medical care, with "Stories of Impact" title overlay for Saving Moses.

Belito’s story, like the story of the boy and the starfish, reminds me that we are making a difference and that saving even just one life is incredibly significant.

Surviving the Drought

Baobab tree in a drought-affected landscape of Angola, illustrating the environmental challenges faced by communities impacted by war and malnutrition.

As drought and the effects of war impact an already crippled food system in Angola, babies and toddlers fight to survive.

Pain, Strength, and Hope

Mother holding a baby in a casual setting, highlighting themes of child welfare and maternal care related to malnutrition and child development.

After asking the question, “What concerns you about going home?” the answer of a 26-year-old mom named Maria stopped me in my tracks. “I’m worried I will go home without my baby,” she said.

The High Cost of Hunger

Toddler sitting on a bed, looking concerned, reflecting the impact of malnutrition and drought in Angola.

By Heidi Cortez, Executive Director  We have all missed a meal at one point and felt the pains of hunger. When you are hungry, it is difficult to focus on anything else. I have watched my son’s entire demeanor change the moment he gets something to eat. He instantly transforms from cranky and angry to […]

Life and hope

Child sitting on an adult's lap, looking concerned, holding a smartphone, in a setting reflecting themes of pain and hope related to hunger and humanitarian aid.

Executive Director, Heidi Cortez, reflects back on her first trip to Angola where she witnessed both death and hope.