IMPROVED FEEDING CAPABILITY - CARITAS OPG

CARITAS will implement the project. The project will provide important increases in CARITAS feeding programs for mothers, children, and the unemployed, especially by funding the transportation of additional PL 480 Title II commodities. Foodstuffs provided will include wheat, oil, corn, oats, and milk. The number of recipients will increase from 275,000 to over 413,000 through the following specific changes: a 23% increase in Mother/Child Health (MCH) programs; a 15% increase in pre-school feeding programs; and a 23% increase in day care center and other child feeding programs. Women will directly benefit from the project through the MCH increases. In addition, increased day care center programs will liberate more women from the drudgery of housework and allow them to pursue productive careers outside the home. The severe unemployment in target areas -- sierras and peublos jovenes, or urban slums, have the highest unemployment rates in the nation -- will be alleviated by a 69% increase in Food for Work programs. Project funds will also support salaries of family educators/promotors, who will receive basic training and orientation through short, in-country seminars. The family educators/promotors will pilot test special education activities in five of the target areas: Lima, Arquipa, Cuzco, Huancayo, and Cajamarca. Beneficiaires will be instructed in the proper use of Title II commodities, improved nutrition and sanitation, preventive health measures, and increased and better use of nutritious, locally-produced foods. Three field assistants will inspect and evaluate food storage and distribution on a continuous basis.