Breastfeeding and well-being: the successful bet of the Mothers' Club of Trou du Nord

Trou du Nord, Haiti– Rose, 36, gazes at her six-month-old baby with a proud smile.  Far from the worry that consumed her a few months ago, today, in her arms, the child wriggles, full of energy and life. 

Like many women in her community, she struggled to understand how to properly nourish her baby in a context of limited resources. "I didn’t know that breastfeeding could have such a positive impact on his health," she admits.

It was at the Mothers' Club, initiated by the Trou du Nord Community Referral Hospital and supported by UNICEF with funding from the European Union and Government of Canada, that Rose found the support she needed.  This programme aims not only to improve the health of infants but also to foster the development of strong bonds between mothers and children, thus contributing to strengthening the social fabric. 

A space for support and learning

Rose will never forget the day she decided to follow the club's advice and exclusively breastfeed Jeyson, her baby. "Jayson was often sick and cried constantly. After I started breastfeeding, he became stronger, calmer and healthy." she says.

Every week, Rose joins about ten other mothers in interactive sessions led by health professionals like Lunise, a health supervisor and co-founder of the club. "Breastfeeding is like giving your baby a natural vaccine," Lunise explains passionately. "It doesn’t just protect against diseases; it also strengthens intellectual development."

The sessions, far from being limited to technical aspects, offer a space for listening, sharing, and mutual support, complemented by practical cooking demonstrations, discussions on nutrition, and even home visits.

For Rose and the other participants, the club has become a lifeline. "Breastfeeding saves me time and money. Most importantly, I know my baby is getting everything he needs to grow strong and healthy," she says with a smile.

Tangible results

The experience gained by Rose and other mothers turned them into breastfeeding ambassadors in their communities. 

Rose, proud of her journey, now shares her knowledge with other women in her village." "I see women around me starting to breastfeed because of what I learned here. Together, we are building something beautiful for our children," Rose says with emotion. 

The Impact of the UNICEF, European Union and Government of Canada partnership

The success of the Mothers’ Club is largely due to the strategic partnership between UNICEF, the European Union and Government of Canada. Their financial support provides medicines, equipment, capacity-building for staff, and the technical and logistical assistance needed to sustain the hospital’s operations.

Anne Thérèse, head of community health, highlights the significance of this collaboration. "Thanks to funding from the European Union, Government of Canada and support from UNICEF, we have the means to expand our efforts and build a healthier generation."