Vincencia Toma, a resident of Radamata Village in Kota Tambulaka District, South West Sumba, has seen a positive change in her daily life due to the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program. As a pregnant mother with a four-year-old child, Vincencia shared how the program has benefited her and her child. Previously, they would have whatever they could find for breakfast, but since the MBG program started, her child now finishes every meal provided. Enjoying the taste and nutritional value of the meals after receiving free meals for the past nine days, Vincencia also mentioned how the program has helped improve her family’s eating habits, making food distribution throughout the day easier.
Among the many pregnant and breastfeeding mothers who directly benefit from the MBG nutrition service kitchens in her village, being nine months pregnant, Vincencia appreciated the government’s effort in providing free and nutritious food for rural mothers and children. She emphasized the positive impact it has had in ensuring kids receive meals with sufficient protein and variety. Expressing her hope for the program to continue long-term, she believes in its importance for community health improvement.
Operated by the Tambolaka Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG), the MBG program in Southwest Sumba is designed to provide meals to schools and health posts, specifically targeting pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers. Using locally sourced ingredients and focusing on well-balanced nutrition, the program aims to address health issues and reduce stunting rates in the region. Vincencia’s story serves as an example of how the MBG program is making a significant impact on the lives of many families in South West Sumba.
