The power of porridge

Serving milk and oatmeal to mothers and children has made some startling differences in peoples' lives.

BY SIMONE WORTHING

The Salvation Army World Service Office (SAWSO) works globally with local corps and centres to help change the lives of some of the world’s poorest, most vulnerable, and suffering individuals.

Over the past months, Global Focus has featured some of the projects SAWSO is driving and the impact these are having in local communities.

This week, we look at projects in Paraguay and the Philippines.

 

PARAGUAY

Milk and oatmeal In San Lorenzo’s Villa Laurelty neighbourhood, the Tekokatu clinic’s Milk & Oatmeal program combats child malnutrition by empowering mothers with education on hygiene, child development, and wellbeing.

The program’s Canto al Bebé classes help mothers strengthen emotional bonds with their babies through singing, fostering early development and maternal confidence.

“Participating in the activities on Wednesdays has been a way of recharging my strength to continue with the week’s struggle,” said Romina, a mother of four.

Mirta, a young mother, sought support for severe depression and the effects of a violent past. Through therapy and group sessions, she has built a healthier bond with her daughters, breaking cycles of trauma.

Gabriela, another beneficiary, found the strength to leave an abusive relationship, find stable employment and create a safer future for her child.

In 2023 and 2024 alone, with SAWSO’s support, the clinic has provided more than 7000 medical consultations and reached 1300 people through free community health programs. By equipping young mothers and families with vital resources, the clinic offers hope for a healthier, brighter future.

PHILIPPINES

Strengthening the ability to serve SAWSO is strengthening The Salvation Army Philippines’ ability to serve communities through the Integrated Community Development Program.

The program equips local officers and staff with the skills to identify community needs, develop solutions and implement impactful projects.

Corps officers undergo training in faith-based facilitation, community engagement and project management, enabling them to work alongside residents to assess challenges and develop tailored solutions.

So far, across 32 communities, 6440 individuals have participated in training on economic resilience, violence prevention and youth development.

Through livelihood grants, financial literacy training and job programs, 3387 people have gained financial knowledge, while 1344 have acquired skills for income-generating activities.

Additionally, 1010 individuals have received violence prevention training, strengthening the community’s resilience and self-sufficiency.