Health Poverty Action is on a mission to support mums in rural Sierra Leone to take charge of their own health and that of their families' through good nutrition.

"The biggest problem we face is nutrition... Most times [children] have been given water and rice too young, or without a varied nutritional balance. Most parents who come here haven't been taught what food to give their children," says Asha, a nurse at the Kagbere health centre.

Our Happy Mums, Happy Tums appeal will help mums to make informed decisions about nutrition, raise livestock and set up community gardens to grow their own food. We will also equip health workers and clinics to raise awareness around health and nutrition and treat malnourished families.

Fatu, a 22-year-old mother along with her 2-year-old daughter Ami benefitted from a previous Health Poverty Action initiative in her community in northern Sierra Leone.

Ami was diagnosed with malnutrition last year, Fatu explained. "She got sick, she lost weight and I had to bring her to the health centre."

The clinic staff shared information with Fatu so she could ensure Ami had a balanced diet, was given medication and understood the importance of hand washing when making food for her family.

With support from the clinic staff, Fatu was able to nurse Ami back to health.

Your support for Health Poverty Action's Happy Mums, Happy Tums appeal will allow more mums, like Fatu, to take charge of their families' health.

Donations made by UK residents before the 31st of December 2019 that support Health Poverty Action's 'Happy Mums, Happy Tums' UK Aid Match appeal will be doubled by the UK government, up to £2 million!

Match funding from the UK government will directly support the health and nutrition of mums and young children in rural Sierra Leone, and public donations will support Health Poverty Action's work where it's needed most.