This center opened in 1974 to help the most undernourished children of El Progreso. Starvation was and still is a reality for many children in Honduras. The parish of Las Mercedes felt compelled to help them by setting up a shelter where they can regain their strength. Children are referred to the nutrition center by the local hospitals, clinics and general practitioners.
Each child stays at the nutrition center until it is fully recovered, which usually takes from four to six months. Most children are between six months and four years old when they arrive at the center. During their stay at the center, the mother and/or father is obliged to spend one day a week at the center, to learn about hygiene, child care, preparation of food and most of all to learn to understand what their child needs to be raised in a healthy way.
We believe it is paramount to encourage parents to take their responsibility for their child, and we commit ourselves to teach them how to do just that. During the child’s stay in the center, we offer complete medical care, clothing, food, etc.