Dino Marzaro - 2024-25 Governor
April is Maternal and Child Health Month
We are already in the month of April.
For Rotary, April means Maternal and Child Health Month. The main determinants of good health include income, education, employment, food security, environment, and family genetics.
According to Rotary International: “Today, about 5.9 million children under the age of 5 die each year from malnutrition, lack of care, and health problems.”
According to UNICEF, “Every two minutes, a woman dies during pregnancy or childbirth.” This could be prevented with access to proper and quality healthcare.
Additionally, many children are born during conflicts or wars and grow up with them. These children and their mothers suffer from psychological trauma, nightmares, and bodies lacking essential nutrients.
Today, in the United States, about 23% of families are single-parent households, which does not help the health of the mother and child. Single parents often lack time and, as a result, experience psychological distress and isolation.
Let’s not forget the essential: A healthy woman and mother means better protection for the child’s health.
What actions or causes does your club support to improve maternal and child health?
What are the impacts of these actions?
Did you know that there are respite camps for families with children facing physiological and/or psychological challenges? More than half of the children attending these camps come from single-parent families.
Many Rotary clubs offer free healthcare services to certain mothers and children. Dental care, homework assistance, sessions with a psychologist, or training with a sports coach are some examples.
Rotary club members also prepare meals for families in need. Thanks to these meals and the time saved on cooking, mothers can devote more time to their children.
Some clubs also help mothers and children living outside their communities by sending clothing, school supplies, and furniture.
April is also the month to complete club documents to apply for the Governor’s Citation, the Citation of Excellence, and to register for the District Conference, which will take place from May 9 to 12 in Quebec.
Finally, there is still time to register for the Rotary International Conference in Calgary next June.
Remember that the health of mothers and children can be improved through your magical actions.
With The Magic of Rotary, you show how proud you are to be Rotarian Heroes.
Dino Marzaro
Governor of District 7790
2024-2025