Navigating life amidst change

Mother-of-four Agnes is well aware of the consequences of Zambia’s changing climate. The rains came unexpectedly early this year, and then they stopped altogether. The plot of land she owns to grow food is very small and she was unable to afford fertilizer this year. She and her husband have no formal employment, but they do odd jobs when possible to make ends meet. Thinking about how she and her husband will provide for their family causes Agnes great stress, especially as they navigate life in such a changeable environment. She says: “When they are just at home, they are always asking for food, but there is nothing we can do in the face of floods or droughts.”

Three of Agnes’ children are enrolled in school and the youngest plans on attending soon. There, at Chikowa Primary School, they receive a nutritious meal every school day served up by local Mary’s Meals volunteers, and the relief for Agnes is immense. She tells us: “Now they have a meal at school it is easier.

“If Mary’s Meals did not exist, it would be a big burden for parents and the children would not have enough to eat. It really helps families to know that children can eat at school. I want to see my children excel and have a good education.”

Agnes’ daughter, Leah, knows how vital these daily meals for keeping her in school and giving her the energy to excel. She says: “I used to stay away from school but now I do not miss classes. I don’t feel good when I’m absent from school because there isn’t enough to eat.

“Before Mary’s Meals I was not able to perform in class. Now I am able to concentrate and do better.” Against the backdrop of changing climate and unpredictable food sources, the Mary’s Meals school feeding program is empowering communities and providing consistent support to help children in Zambia to attend school and work towards fulfilling their potential.