Problem

Currently, there are 400 million school-aged children infected with intestinal parasites and worms. This is the main cause of disease in infants and children throughout the developing world. In countries like Azerbaijan and Armenia, a high percentage of primary school students are afflicted with this disease. If it is not treated, the worm infection can cause a wide range of problems, including reduced growth rate, learning problems and illnesses such as malnutrition, dysentery and anemia.

The Gift

Your gift of $35 will de-worm a class of 25 students and help the World Food Program (WFP) reach its goal of providing regular treatment to at least 75% of all school children at risk of dying from intestinal worm infection by 2010.

De-worming not only improves a child's health, but also makes it easier for him or her to concentrate in school. Worms can be eradicated with only one 500mg tablet of Mebendazol. WFP has partnered with the World Health Organization to distribute the tablets at WFP school feedings. Children receive the de-worming treatment along with a nutritional meal to improve overall health and prevent re-infection.

To learn more about what the World Food Program is doing to end world hunger and improve the health of children, please visit www.friendsofwfp.org