Active charity organizations like the Canadian Red Cross are engaged in projects around the world that are intended to help individuals in need.
Whether as a result of emergencies and disasters or a lack of proper medical or social programs that provide assistance during incidents, without access to essential resources, certain individuals - including women and children - can be more susceptible to illnesses, as well as other risks.
With maternal health programs like those offered by the Canadian Red Cross, women and children are able to enjoy the benefits of greater access to health and better nutrition.
Yet while Mother, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH) projects like REDES, which is available in Honduras, are focused on addressing the needs of women, infants and children under five, men play an integral role in their maintenance.
Across gender lines
The REDES project, which means "networks" in Spanish, was developed in 2006 by the Honduran Red Cross, in partnership with the Canadian Red Cross, the Honduran Ministry of Health, as well as municipal organizations.
Volunteers with the Red Cross work to improve education in remote parts of the country and increase access to healthcare services - the REDES project also enables people in Honduras to learn more about nutrition for children and encourages the practice of healthier habits.
One of the other important initiatives that the REDES project is committed to achieving is equal practices and habits for family health. In order to achieve this, volunteers for the REDES project have encouraged men to take more active roles in the organization and gain greater insight into the best wellness practices for families. The project has developed a gender strategy to promote the active participation of men during pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period, traditionally considered to be "women's domains."
Helping those in need
The Canadian Red Cross works to improve the lives of those in need around the world through a variety of services. With MNCH, the Canadian Red Cross is able to provide resources to mothers and children living in remote areas of the world.
By broadening access to essential healthcare services, the Canadian Red Cross plays an important role in preserving the well-being of women around the world.
With the help of Canadians like you, the Canadian Red Cross is able to meet the needs of vulnerable communities and give individuals tools to overcome challenges that emerge.
To show your support for the Canadian Red Cross, please donate online or at your local Canadian Red Cross office today.