Provide toys and food vouchers for 400 children

1. Project Summary:

This project supported 400 vulnerable children in Juba through the distribution of recreational toys and food vouchers. It aimed to improve psychosocial well-being and nutritional access, particularly for children affected by nodding syndrome, which is compounded by the impacts of climate shocks, displacement, poverty, and trauma. The intervention complemented national child protection and nutrition strategies.

2. Activities Implemented

• Toy Distribution: Age-appropriate toys were distributed to promote play-based healing and social interaction.
• Food Voucher Scheme: Vouchers were redeemable at local vendors, supporting both nutrition and local markets.
• Nutrition Education: Sessions covered child nutrition, maternal health, and practical recipes for caregivers

3. Outcomes & Impact

• Children showed increased engagement in play and reduced signs of distress (based on caregiver feedback).
• Families accessed diverse food options, improving dietary diversity.
• Caregivers reported increased knowledge of nutrition and meal planning.

4. Visual Documentation

• Photos of distribution events
• Testimonials from caregivers and children
• Sample nutrition materials shared during sessions

5. Challenges & Lessons Learned

• Challenge: Delays in voucher redemption due to vendor onboarding.
• Lesson: Early vendor sensitization and mobile-based tracking improved efficiency.
• Challenge: Limited caregiver literacy during nutrition sessions.
• Lesson: Use of visual aids and local language facilitators increased comprehension.

6. Alignment with National & Donor Priorities

• Supports South Sudan’s National Nutrition Strategy and Child Protection Framework.
• Aligns with donor goals on child well-being, cash-based assistance, and community resilience.

7: Heartfelt Testimonials from Beneficiaries:

• Ajeth, Caregiver of 3 Children in Nzara Centre: "Before this project, my children had never owned toys. Now they play together and laugh more. The food vouchers helped me cook proper meals. I feel like a better mother."
• Majouk, Apupil Aged 9 in Sangua Payam: "I got a ball and a puzzle. I play with my sister every day. We don’t fight anymore. I like the food too—it makes me strong."
• Agnes, Nutrition Session Participant in Basukangbi Payam: "I learned how to cook porridge with groundnut and pumpkin. I didn’t know it was good for babies. Now I teach other women in my area."
• Rev. Gordon of Basukangbi Payam: "We saw children smile again. The milk and food support gave them strength, and the toys brought joy. Even families displaced by conflict found hope through this program."

These voices reflect the project’s dual impact: restoring dignity through choice-based food support and nurturing emotional resilience through play.

• Project Report (PDF)