Turning hunger into hope: How ACED supports learning through nutrition

Good nutrition makes learning possible. For many public school students, hunger and malnutrition make it difficult to focus, stay in school, and perform well in class.

To support these students, the Ateneo Center for Educational Development (ACED) launched the Food Augmentation Program (FAP) in 2020. Every week, students and their families receive food packs that include nutritious vegetables and root crops. These are purchased directly from farmers in Luzon, benefiting both families and local agriculture.

The Food Augmentation Program (FAP) has made a significant impact on children’s health and learning. Across partner schools, many students who were once malnourished have now reached a healthy body weight.

Based on year-end reports conducted by ACED, the FAP effectively reached more than half of the identified undernourished elementary students, who have since recovered from malnutrition and now have a normal BMI. In the same report, ACED found that one in four high school students who were previously malnourished and classified as “severely wasted” or “wasted” have also achieved a normal BMI.

Evaluations show clear results: improved academic performance, higher class participation, and greater enthusiasm among students. Teachers report noticeable increases in motivation and energy levels, while parents have observed improvements in their children’s physical health and overall well-being.

These outcomes demonstrate that when children are well-nourished, they are better able to learn, attend school regularly, and build a brighter future.

Give a Gift That Gives Back
Today, the Food Augmentation Program (FAP) serves 2,240 public elementary and high school students in Cainta, Marikina City, and Quezon City. All of this has been made possible through the generous and heartfelt support of organizations, groups, and individuals who believe that no child should go to sleep hungry. Their compassion reflects a shared commitment to realizing Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger, Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being, and Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

ACED hopes to expand the reach of this vital program and welcomes new partners in the ongoing fight against hunger. You can make a difference by giving a gift that gives back.

When you purchase an ACED Christmas e-Card, your donation helps sustain the Food Augmentation Program and supports more learners and families in need.

Purchase your ACED Christmas e-Cards online: https://go.ateneo.edu/ACEDChristmas2025

Your help will go a long way!