SNEHA Aahar End of Project Report

The document presents the results and insights of the Aahar program, implemented by SNEHA in Mumbai's informal settlements, specifically Dharavi, to combat child malnutrition. The program transitioned from daycare center-based interventions to a scalable, community-based model. It employed a two-pronged approach: improving community care practices and collaborating with government health services. A key focus was the Community Management of Acute Malnutrition (CMAM) model, emphasizing early detection, treatment, and preventive measures.

Over four years, the program reached over 31,000 children and 6,000 pregnant women, achieving a 28% reduction in wasting (acute malnutrition) in high-intensity intervention areas. Key activities included monthly child screenings, home visits by community organizers, behavior change communication, and collaboration with anganwadi workers and government programs. The program also integrated technology to monitor progress and adapt strategies effectively.

The report highlights the cost-effectiveness and scalability of the CMAM model, showcasing its potential as a replicable framework for addressing urban malnutrition. Challenges included limited community engagement and gaps in government service delivery, underscoring the need for deeper integration with public health systems and sustained community empowerment. Future iterations, termed "Aahar 2.0," aim to increase community ownership, leverage government partnerships, and prioritize preventive care to ensure long-term impact.