Canadian Red Cross working with other national societies and PAHO to address women and children's health in the Americas

Topics: National
October 10, 2013

On Monday, September 9, members of the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), along with the Canadian Red Cross and the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO), met in Panama City to launch a new publication on maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH).

The publication entitled, “Maternal Newborn and Child Health in the Americas: A report on the commitments to women and children’s health,” is the product of an extensive research project in the Americas. Lead by the IFRC, the project focuses on Red Cross Red Crescent MNCH programming and MNCH related activities conducted by national societies, partner national societies, governments and external organizations. It also identifies policy and funding trends in MNCH and MNCH needs in the Americas.

The publication is based on research that was conducted from January to April of 2012 and has been compiled to provide an analysis of the current situation regarding MNCH for the region, as well as recommendations. The report serves as a probable three-year plan of action to increase and promote Red Cross Red Crescent MNCH programming in the Americas.

The report identifies the top five countries in most need of MNCH programming as Haiti, Guatemala, Bolivia, Guyana and Honduras. As a result, more efforts will be dedicated to seek funding for MNCH in future years, specifically for these top five countries.

Through its network of National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the IFRC has continuously been supporting and implementing health initiatives related to reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health for over 20 years. These MNCH initiatives include community programmes that promote healthy behaviours, increase vaccinations, and monitor the growth of children. Additionally the IFRC works with partners like PAHO, government authorities and local communities to increase universal access to care for mothers, children and other vulnerable people.

Active in maternal, newborn and child health since 1997, Canadian Red Cross programs are delivered in some 20 countries, with close to $18 million dedicated annually toward health and hygiene interventions. Canadian Red Cross MNCH programs aim to reach the most vulnerable mothers and children across Africa, Asia and the Americas, by providing equitable access to essential life saving MNCH interventions.

To learn more, view the full publication.
 

Section Widgets