Fresnet’s Fight Against Malnutrition

Torbeck – Sud. In the courtyard of the health centre in the community of Ferme Le Blanc, located in southern Haiti, a large canopy shields mothers from the sun. Under this tarpaulin, dozens of mothers wait patiently, holding their babies in their arms. Despite the heat, everyone is attentive, knowing that the session is essential for their children's health.

These awareness sessions on breastfeeding and Vitamin A are organized by the Ministry of Public Health and the Population (MSPP), through the Southern Health Directorate (DSS), and Multipurpose Community Health Workers (ASCP), with support from UNICEF. Through these exchanges, families are encouraged to better understand the importance of exclusive breastfeeding during the first months of life. In parallel, children receive Vitamin A, a simple yet vital intervention to strengthen their immune systems and help them grow up healthier. 

Lifesaving Actions

Standing before the group, Fresnet, an ASCP leads the session with energy. He explains the importance of Vitamin A, which acts as a shield against diseases. Moving beyond words, he demonstrates practically to the mothers how to properly position their babies for breastfeeding. "Breast milk is the best protection for an infant," he explains. For Fresnet, every information shared represents another chance for a child to grow up healthy. 

Among the participants is Cassandra, a committed mother from the Ferme Le Blanc community. She came with her six months old daughter Mariana.

"Before, I thought we had to give water or porridge very early on. But Fresnet taught me that my milk is enough. Today, my daughter is in perfect health. When I go back home, I also explain this to my neighbors to help them," she says after listening to Fresnet’s advice and receiving Vitamin A for her baby.

Cassandra's testimony shows that these sessions do not end in the health centre's courtyard. Once back home, many mothers become themselves a source of information, sharing life-protecting practices with other women. 

A commitment beyond the obstacles

Fresnet’s work is not easy. He often has to walk for long hours on difficult roads to reach families. "Sometimes it’s exhausting, but when I see mothers putting my advice into practice and children regaining their strength, it gives me the drive to keep going," he says.

Through his dedication, Fresnet highlights the essential role of multipurpose community health workers. Day after day, they bridge the gap between health services and families, bringing simple, concrete, and vital messages directly into communities. 

Hope Sustained by Solidarity

This work is made possible thanks to the Ministry of Public Health and the Population (MSPP), the Southern Health Directorate (DSS), and Multipurpose Community Health Workers, in partnership with UNICEF and with the support of France, Canada, the United States Government, and the European Union (ECHO).

In 2025, UNICEF and its partners enabled 253,509 children to receive Vitamin A. This is a massive step forward, but with only 46% of the annual target met, thousands of other children are still waiting.