A new shelter for expecting mothers is set to open at Arteche, Eastern Samar this month, the local government has announced.
The SUSAN-e (Sustainable-Nutrition And Nanay Empowerment) Center will serve as a safe and dignified temporary shelter for pregnant women, particularly those from remote communities who are nearing their due dates, according to Arteche Vice Mayor Roland Boie Evardone.
Evardone said expectant mothers from outside the town center who have no place to stay while awaiting childbirth may temporarily reside at the center for several days or up to a week, depending on their scheduled delivery.
The SUSAN-e Center can also accommodate watchers or guardians of hospital patients who need a decent and safe place to rest.
Evardone said new facility will also support the implementation of the town’s maternal and child care ordinance, which provides incentives to promote safe motherhood practices.
Under the ordinance, mothers who give birth in a health facility receive PHP1,000 plus grocery items, while the assisting barangay health worker or birth attendant receives PHP300.
Evardone emphasized that the initiative reflects the local government’s continued efforts and strong commitment to improving maternal health, nutrition and community empowerment.
The facility was funded through the municipality’s Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) 2024 award, amounting to P1.15 million.
(With report from PNA)
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