Isolation isn’t beneficial to anyone’s health, much less our children’s. When the coronavirus caused much of the world to shelter in place, Bolivia was no exception. That meant for most, regular doctor appointments and healthy eating took a backseat – Emily’s family included.

“I failed to address Emily’s dental health and allowed her to consume too many sweets because it was a stressful time,” says Carina, Emily’s mother. “Her routine checkups didn’t happen either because we were afraid of contracting the coronavirus.”

As a result, Emily developed a cavity in her front tooth. It wasn’t long before the pain was too much to bear. They had to risk a trip to the dentist. That’s where they found Esperança.

“The dentist medicated the tooth, but warned that we would be back soon without proper nutrition and oral hygiene practices.”

Through the Child Protection Project in Bolivia, Esperança provides support to families, training for health personnel, and the medical materials necessary to evaluate the development and nutritional status of children. Together, we are keeping kids and their families educated, safe, and healthy!

With donations from financial supporters, Emily and her family got back on track quickly and efficiently. Through education in a classroom setting, she, her mother, and her sister Maritza all developed life-long hygiene habits and the nutritional care they needed to avoid another painful and expensive visit to the dentist – they are all smiling at life once again!

“I understand now how important the routine checkups are to maintaining good health,” says Carina. “Thank you Esperança!”