News from the Field
March 13, 2013
Two Years after Tsunami in Japan, UNICEF Support Continues
It has been two years since the Japan Committee for UNICEF extended its support to children in Japan affected by the massive earthquake and tsunami. At the outset, workers distributed drinking water, clothing, and other supplies, and provided healthcare services along with support for reopening schools. A highlight of the earthquake recovery support has been the rebuilding of schools and care facilities for young children. Today, children are enjoying their time at these facilities — kindergartens, nursery schools and after-school care centers.
March 8, 2013
In Syria, Women Struggle to Support and Protect Their Families
In Homs, Syria, you don’t have to drive too far to see signs of destruction and devastation. The thundering sound of shelling is part of everyday life here, and hundreds of thousands of civilians have had to flee their homes. In collective shelters, which often lack basic services such as hot water and showers, I witnessed grief over life that had been lost. But I also saw resilience and a strong sense of community. Amidst all this devastation, what gives me hope is the determination of parents to make sure their children receive an education.
March 6, 2013
In Uganda, Knocking Down Barriers to Health Care
In remote areas of Uganda, where health facilities are lacking, it can be difficult to access basic medical care. With the introduction of Family Health Days, however, families can now receive the care and attention they need. The UNICEF-supported Family Health Days are held every four months at various places of worship. Services range from immunization and birth registration of children to free antenatal care for mothers, deworming and blood pressure checks. Counseling and education on leading healthy lifestyles are also offered to youth.
March 2, 2013
In Remote Mongolia, a Quality Education for Every Child
The Khuvsgul region of northern Mongolia is a land of mountains, nomads and herds. In the village of Tsagaannuur, many students at the school live in the dormitories. The school’s latrines are outdoors, and this makes it difficult for children, especially for girls at night. In the next two years, UNICEF will provide the school with indoor toilets for boys and girls. UNICEF is also supporting the school with teacher training, supplies and special integration programs for children who have dropped out of school and children with disabilities.
March 1, 2013
Fighting Malnutrition Among Malian Refugees in Niger
As the situation in Mali continues to deteriorate, families are fleeing to Mangaize refugee camp in the Niger. In order to address the critical malnutrition levels in camps, UNICEF and its partners launched a feeding program in January. The program targets all children under five who are at risk of malnutrition. Nearly 1,200 children are in the program in Mangaize camp. Three meals are served daily, and a team of 90 trained women, most of them refugees, prepare and serve meals and mobilize parents to bring their children to the centers.
