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The TFC - Therapeutic Feeding Center |
SSLDF also manages the Therapeutic Feeding Center for children, called TFC, which is located on the lands of the Magbenteh Community Hospital.
Its management was handed over to SSLDF in 2005 by the NGO Action Contre la Faim. Action Contre la Faim founded the TFC, but was looking for another NGO to take over the program. The goal of the program is to reduce infant mortality in Sierra Leone by taking in and caring for children who are under nourished. They generally will stay for two to three months, until they reach their ideal weight. UNICEF provides food for the TFC.
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During the time of their stay, the children are accompanied by a family member (mother, grandmother, etc.) and they will receive advice and guidance on health and nutrition for children. |
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Since September 2007, UNICEF supported the SSLDF in the construction of a new feeding center. The capacity of our TFC has now been doubled to 100 beds.
The old TFC building will become a handicraft center (sewing room, craft and handiwork area for the mothers of the sick children). |
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On the 17th of June 2008, the new TFC was inaugurated by the Health Minister,
Dr. Soccoh Kabia.
A large number of people assisted in the inauguration, among whom were the regional advisory doctor and the UNICEF representative in Sierra Leone, Mr. Geert Cappelaere.
922 patients were cared for in 2008. Despite our efforts, we were unable to save many of the children. One of the main causes of infant mortality brought on by malnutrition is a too late arrival at the TFC. |
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In order to remedy this problem, we have started and "Outreach" program.
Here are some children (accompanied by a family member) who have been admitted to our center: |
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Aminata Turray
1 year
Admitted 15 May 2008 |
Ibrahim Conteh
3 years and 6 months
Admitted 6 January 2008 |
Isata Bangura
12 years
Admitted 14 January 2008 |
Abibatu Kamara
9 months
Admitted 6 March 2008 |
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