Aparri Philippines Stake Child Nutrition Program Strengthens Families Through Coordinated Service

The Aparri Philippines Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints recently conducted a Stake Child Nutrition Program (CNP), bringing together priesthood and organization leaders, health professionals and families in a coordinated effort to support children ages 0–59 months — a crucial period for physical growth and development.

Families from Gattaran, Magapit, Lallo, Camalaniugan and Aparri participated in the initiative, reflecting the wide reach of the Stake’s organized efforts to care for the rising generation.

Careful Preparation and Warm Welcome

Weeks of planning ensured the program's success. The CNP Committee — composed of Welfare and Self-Reliance Specialists, Stake Relief Society and Primary leaders — worked closely with ward leaders to ensure proper coordination and orderly registration.

Each participating child was welcomed and assisted through a structured process designed to provide both efficiency and personal care.

The activity opened with engaging presentations that combined education and creativity. Children wore hats decorated with fruits and vegetables, reinforcing healthy food choices in a memorable and age-appropriate way. Leaders interacted warmly with families, creating an atmosphere of encouragement and belonging.

Nourishment with Long-Term Purpose

Highlight of the program was the distribution of warm, nutritious soup. Carefully prepared to include vegetables, protein and essential nutrients, the meal was selected for its digestibility for young children and practicality for large-scale preparation.

Organizers emphasized that the program extends beyond a single meal. The Church’s Child Nutrition Program aims to identify and monitor children at risk of malnutrition, provide supplemental assistance, educate parents on sustainable nutrition practices and strengthen families through principles of self-reliance.

Medical Support and Community Partnership

The program was strengthened by the presence of local health professionals who provided guidance on growth monitoring, preventive care and nutrition education:

• Dr. Diana Rhea V. Garde, Chief of Hospital, Aparri Provincial Hospital
• Dr. Marivee Urayani Agulay, Pediatrician and Owner, Northern Children’s Clinic
• Gaibrica Gasmen, Registered Pharmacist

Their participation reinforced the importance of professional medical insight alongside community-based support.

President Willie Estrada, First Counselor in the Philippines Tuguegarao Mission and Welfare and Self-Reliance Manager, also attended the event. He interacted personally with children and families, expressing support for continued efforts to strengthen homes and promote self-reliance.

A Unified Commitment to the Rising Generation

With the support of the Stake Presidency and the coordinated efforts of Relief Society, Primary, Elders Quorum and Couple Welfare and Self-Reliance Specialists, the activity demonstrated unified leadership and shared responsibility.

Through thoughtful preparation, collaborative service and community partnership, the Stake Child Nutrition Program reflects an ongoing commitment to strengthening families and supporting children during their earliest and most formative years.