When Mary Pahadin, 21, who lives in a country in South Asia, became pregnant with her first child, she weighed a mere 38 kilograms (84 pounds). She was unaware of how important proper nutrition, rest, and regular checkups were to protecting her health and the health of her unborn child.

Then, through God’s grace, Mary attended an awareness program focused on pregnancy best practices, along with a nutritious food program organized by World Renew’s local partner.

Through these programs, Mary gained essential knowledge about proper nutrition and pregnancy care. She learned about the importance of regular antenatal care (ANC) checkups and the benefits of taking iron supplements. Mary took what she learned to heart and began attending ANC appointments regularly.

Now in her eighth month of pregnancy, Mary prepares and eats nutritious food four times a day. By her sixth month, her weight had increased to a healthier 49 kilograms (108 pounds).

“Now I believe that my delivery will be done normally in the hospital, and I will deliver a healthy baby,” shares Mary.

Her story highlights the transformative impact of community-based education and nutritional support on maternal health. Through World Renew’s maternal, newborn, and child health programs, families are equipped with practical knowledge and resources to care for themselves and their children—helping mothers and babies not only survive, but thrive.