Elsa* is a one-year-old girl from Tsitsika Town in Ziquala Woreda, Wag Himra Zone, Amhara Region. She lost her mother during childbirth and has since been under the care of her maternal aunt, who assumed full responsibility for her upbringing and well-being.
The absence of maternal care affected her feeding and nurturing needs during a critical stage of early childhood. At the same time, her family’s limited economic capacity made it difficult for her caregiver to provide adequate nutrition, hygiene supplies, clothing, and other essential childcare items.
Despite her commitment to caring for the child, Elsa*’s aunt struggled to meet the increasing costs associated with infant feeding, including the purchase of milk and other age-appropriate nutritional supplements. The family also lacked sufficient resources to access basic hygiene materials and necessities required to ensure a safe and healthy environment for the child’s growth and development.
Recognizing her vulnerability and the challenges faced by her caregiver, community members, child protection structures, and relevant stakeholders referred Elsa*’s case for support. Given her age and the socioeconomic pressures affecting the household, she was identified as a child requiring targeted assistance and continuous follow-up.
Through community outreach activities under the Joining Forces for Food Security and Child Protection in Emergencies (JF-FS&CPIE) Project and Elsa’s* referral, a Save the Children Child Protection Officer conducted a comprehensive assessment. Her case was subsequently prioritized, and an individualized care plan was developed in collaboration with her caregiver, the regional Women and Children Affairs Office, and community child protection structures.
The project provided an integrated package of support that included milk powder, diapers, lotion, and other hygiene supplies. Her caregiver was also linked to livelihood opportunities and received Emergency Cash Assistance (CVA) to strengthen her capacity to provide sustainable care. In addition, regular case management follow-up, home visits, and referrals to relevant health, nutrition, and child protection services were conducted to support Elsa*’s wellbeing and development.
Within one year of receiving support, significant improvements were observed in Elsa*’s wellbeing. According to her caregiver, her feeding practices improved considerably, and her overall health condition became more stable. The nutrition and hygiene support helped address her immediate needs, while the economic assistance reduced pressure on the household and improved the family’s ability to meet basic necessities.
Continued case management follow-up and caregiver-strengthening interventions contributed to creating a safer, more stable, and nurturing environment for Elsa*. As a result, she is now benefiting from improved care, better nutrition, and stronger protection within her family setting.
Elsa*’s experience demonstrates the importance of early identification, comprehensive case management, and integrated support for caregivers in improving outcomes for children.
Reflecting on the support received, Elsa*’s aunt shared:
“After receiving support from the project, I feel more confident in caring for Elsa*. The milk and hygiene materials helped me meet her immediate needs, while the income-generating activity and CVA support reduced the economic challenges affecting our family. The regular follow-up visits also gave me encouragement, guidance, and hope. I believe Elsa* will continue to grow healthy and strong.”
*Not her real name.
This publication was produced with the financial support of the German Humanitarian Assistance
Its contents are the sole responsibility of Joining Forces and do not necessarily reflect the views of the German Humanitarian Assistance.