STRENGTHENING MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH IN UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES OF GIDC ANKLESHWAR

STRENGTHENING MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH IN UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES OF GIDC ANKLESHWAR

Location: GIDC Ankleshwar, Gujarat

Donor: Coromandel International

Overview

The project is focusing on improving maternal and child health outcomes in GIDC Ankleshwar, particularly among underserved, migrant, and hard-to-reach communities, by increasing access to comprehensive Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) services.

Objectives:

  • Enhancing Access to Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) Services
  • Increasing Immunization Coverage
  • Strengthening Community Mobilization and Awareness
  • Advocating for Improved RCH Services
  • Contributing to overall improvement in the health indicators of Bharuch district.

Activities Conducted:

Project Inauguration

  • The project was inaugurated by iRG/ and Coromandel Team. During the inauguration programme, 10 nutrition kits were distributed to 10 pregnant women.
Recruitment and Capacity Building

1. Recruitment of Outreach Workers

  • Local individuals familiar with the cultural and social dynamics of the community were identified and recruited as Outreach Workers.

2. Comprehensive Training of Outreach Workers

  • Outreach Workers received comprehensive training on RCH services, including antenatal care, postnatal care, immunization schedules, nutrition, family planning, and maternal and child health risks.
  • Training also covered communication skills, counseling techniques, and how to navigate the health system for referrals.
  • Sensitization sessions were conducted to equip Outreach Workers with knowledge of gender norms, cultural sensitivities, and traditional practices influencing health-seeking behavior.
Community Mobilization and Outreach

3. Community Mapping

  • A detailed community mapping exercise was conducted in pre-identified industrial areas to identify key groups, including pregnant women, young mothers, and children (0-6) requiring immunization or primary healthcare.

4. Door-to-Door Visits

  • Outreach Workers conducted door-to-door visits, educating families on the availability and benefits of RCH services.
dfds
dsw2