A Need For Nutrition

By Kimberly Anderson, Intern at Brighter Community Resources

February 29, 2024

Escuela el Coco

Laughing and happy children can be heard learning and playing together at Escuela el Coco, located in the Northwest region of Costa Rica. These children have bright eyes and big hopes for their futures. They are eager to learn and grow. However, these children are unaware of possible hazards around them due to a lack of resources and nutritional education. Many of them go without some of the basic things you and I may take for granted.

Basic Human Right

Food and nutrition are basic human needs. All children deserve to have access to a balanced diet that will allow them to develop properly and have the energy to reach their full potential. This physiological need is found in the first of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs (Mcleod, 2024). These children deserve safe water and nutritious food before their other needs, such as safety, belonging, and confidence can be met and for them to achieve self-actualization. It is our desire that these children are given these basic necessities. These children are the future of their families and communities.

Dietary Limitations

Figure 1. Healthy Eating Circle – Food Based Dietary Guidelines – Costa Rica (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, n.d.)

The dietary guidelines for Costa Rica say a “diet is healthy when it is varied, hygienic, and natural,” and should include rice and beans, as well as a variety of vegetables and fruits (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, n.d.). Still, many children at this school are suffering from what is called “food insecurity.” Food insecurity is when safe and healthy, nutritious foods are not made available or offered on a consistent basis. This hardship is often overlooked and can be due to extreme weather, disease, or economic challenges faced not only by the country but by the families of these children.

Rice and beans are a consistent traditional meal that is prepared for the children at Escuela el Coco. This meal may fill the caloric requirement, which can be seen by the enthusiastic and energetic children. However, don’t let that energy deceive you. Without also receiving a variety of fruits, vegetables, and protein with this meal consistently, these children may be silently suffering from vitamin and mineral deficiencies known as “hidden hunger.” The current resources at the school do not allow these essential nutrients to be provided for their required needs.

How You Can Make a Difference

Join us in our mission to ensure every child has access to nutritious food and a chance at a brighter future! Here’s how you can help:

Donate: Your contribution, no matter the amount will directly impact these children’s lives by providing them with essential nutrition and resources.
Spread the Word: Share our story on social media and help raise awareness about the importance of nutrition in childhood development.
Volunteer: Get involved hands-on by offering your time and skills to support our efforts in providing for these children’s basic needs.

Together, let’s nourish their bodies and minds, empowering them to thrive and fulfill their potential!

References:
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. (n.d.). Food-based Dietary Guidelines – Costa Rica. https://www.fao.org/nutrition/education/food-dietary-guidelines/regions/costa-rica/en/
Mcleod, S., PhD. (2024). Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. Simply Psychology. https://www.simplypsychology.org/maslow.html