Millions of children are growing up without a real opportunity
Today, over 45 million children under the age of five suffer from acute malnutrition, and 149 million experience stunted growth due to chronic malnutrition (UNICEF, 2023). These are not just numbers. These are faces. Smiles that fade. Futures cut short before they even begin.
What is chronic child malnutrition and why is it so urgent to act?
Chronic child malnutrition (CCM) is a condition that prevents physical and cognitive development from early childhood. Once it appears, it is irreversible. That’s why the first 1,000 days of life —from pregnancy to age two— are critical. That short window determines everything: the ability to learn, grow, and thrive.
“A child with chronic malnutrition is more likely to drop out of school, suffer from illness, and struggle to earn a living as an adult. And this cycle repeats from generation to generation.”
the case of ecuador
A reflection of a global reality
In Ecuador, 20.1% of children under 2 suffer from chronic malnutrition (National Survey on Child Malnutrition, 2023). Despite 12 programs implemented between 1993 and 2021, the rate has barely changed.
Behind every statistic, there is a story
Like that of Rosa Lanchimba and her son John, who live in a community where clean water, nutritious food, and access to medical care are scarce. John was diagnosed with chronic malnutrition at 18 months. And although Rosa has done everything she can to change his path, the damage is already done.
“CCM affects brain development, lowers academic performance, limits job opportunities, and increases the risk of diseases like diabetes and hypertension in adulthood.”
Our mission is clear
Fight child malnutrition at its roots
Stand by the most vulnerable communities
Bring back smiles and opportunities to every child
We work hand-in-hand with local organizations, health centers, and families living in extreme poverty. We deliver food, nutritional education, clean water, and medical support where it’s needed most.
Your help is so powerful
Every donation we receive is transformed into tangible, life-saving aid. Your support provides essential ready-to-use therapeutic food that can pull a severely malnourished child back from the brink of starvation. It funds clean water and hygiene projects in rural communities, preventing the spread of diseases and creating healthier environments for families. Your contributions also ensure children receive vital medical checkups and essential supplements to fight illness and grow strong. We also empower mothers through nutritional education, giving them the knowledge to properly nourish their families for a lifetime. Finally, your generosity provides nutritious school meals that not only feed hungry children but also act as a powerful incentive, keeping them in class and focused on their education.
With just $25, you can help feed a child for an entire week.
With $50, you help a mother receive nutritional training.
With $175, you support a complete treatment for acute malnutrition.
With $450, you can help fund medical supplies to treat children
With $750, you can provide food and medicine to 5 families, as well as education on extreme malnutrition and meal plans.
You can be the hero a child needs
We know you want to change the world too. At HAPPY FACES, we don’t ask for big promises — just hearts willing to act.
With your help, we can save thousands of lives.
Donate now and turn your compassion into a smile.