Vincencia Toma, a resident of Radamata Village in Kota Tambulaka District, South West Sumba, has seen a positive change in her daily life thanks to the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program. As a pregnant mother with a four-year-old child, Vincencia shared how the program has improved her and her child’s eating habits. Previously, they would have whatever food they could find for breakfast, but since participating in the MBG program, her child now finishes every meal provided. Vincencia, who has been receiving free meals for the past nine days, highlighted the delicious taste of the meals and their nutritional value for her child. She also mentioned how the program has made it easier to manage food distribution throughout the day for her family.
Currently nine months pregnant, Vincencia is one of the pregnant and breastfeeding mothers benefiting from the MBG nutrition service kitchens in her village. She appreciates the government’s initiative in providing free and nutritious food for rural mothers and children, emphasizing the positive impact it has on ensuring children receive meals rich in protein and variety. Vincencia expressed her support for the program to continue long-term, recognizing its significance in enhancing community health.
Operated by the Tambolaka Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG), the MBG program in Southwest Sumba is focused on supplying meals to schools and health posts, with a specific target on pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers. Through the use of locally sourced ingredients and a focus on balanced nutrition, the program aims to address health issues and reduce stunting rates in the region. Vincencia’s story is just one example of how the MBG program is positively impacting numerous families in South West Sumba.