Supporting Maternal and Child Health in Indonesia
Yayasan Balita Sehat (YBS), known internationally as the Foundation for Mother and Child Health Indonesia (FMCH Indonesia), was established in Jakarta in 2001 by a small group of expatriate nurses who were concerned about the high rates of malnutrition among children from low-income families. What began as a feeding and health support initiative has evolved into a well-established Indonesian non-governmental organization focused on improving the health, nutrition, education, and wellbeing of mothers and children across Indonesia. (FMCH Indonesia)
Today, the organization is fully managed by Indonesian staff and supported by local and international volunteers. FMCH Indonesia works in urban and rural communities in Jakarta, West Java, West Timor, and other parts of East Nusa Tenggara, helping vulnerable families overcome the challenges of poverty, malnutrition, limited access to education, and maternal health issues. (FMCH Indonesia)
The name Yayasan Balita Sehat literally translates as “Foundation for Healthy Children Under Five.”
What Does FMCH Indonesia Do?
Over the years, FMCH Indonesia has shifted from operating a traditional well-baby clinic to implementing community-based programs that address the root causes of poor health and nutrition.
Current initiatives include:
- Nutrition and feeding programs for malnourished children under five
- Health and nutrition education for mothers and caregivers
- Pregnancy and postnatal support programs
- Early childhood education and preschool programs
- Parenting education and family support
- Women’s empowerment and livelihood training
- Mobile libraries and community learning activities
- Community health outreach programs
- Maternal mental health support initiatives
- Training for community health volunteers and midwives (FMCH Indonesia)
A Growing Focus on Maternal Mental Health
In recent years, FMCH Indonesia has become increasingly active in promoting maternal mental health alongside physical health.
One of its newest initiatives is Program BUNDA, a community-based support program designed to help pregnant and breastfeeding mothers improve their emotional wellbeing. The program trains midwives and community health volunteers to provide psychosocial support and early intervention for mothers experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression during pregnancy and early parenthood. (LinkedIn)
This reflects FMCH Indonesia’s belief that healthy children are best supported when mothers are physically, emotionally, and socially healthy.
Education and Early Childhood Development
FMCH Indonesia recognizes that good nutrition alone is not enough for a child to reach their full potential.
The organization operates and supports community-based early childhood education programs that combine:
- Preschool education
- Health monitoring
- Nutrition support
- Parent engagement
- Emotional development activities
- Health literacy programs
This holistic approach aims to improve school readiness and long-term outcomes for children living in disadvantaged communities. (barbarafmchukcopy)
Women’s Empowerment Programs
To help families become more self-sufficient, FMCH Indonesia also provides skills development and income-generating opportunities for women.
These programs help mothers develop practical skills that can contribute to household income while also improving family wellbeing. Community members have produced handmade products, recycled materials, educational resources, and other locally developed products through these initiatives. (FMCH Indonesia)
Volunteering Opportunities
FMCH Indonesia welcomes volunteers who would like to contribute their time and expertise.
The organization particularly values volunteers with experience in:
- Fundraising
- Information Technology
- Communications
- Journalism and writing
- Marketing and Public Relations
- Graphic design
- Social media management
- Community development
Those interested in volunteering are encouraged to contact the organization directly regarding current opportunities.
Contact Information
Foundation for Mother and Child Health Indonesia (FMCH Indonesia)
(Yayasan Balita Sehat Indonesia)
Email: [email protected]
Website: FMCH Indonesia Official Website
Instagram: FMCH Indonesia Instagram
Why This Organization Matters
Indonesia continues to face significant challenges related to childhood malnutrition, maternal health, early childhood development, and access to health education in underserved communities. Since 2001, FMCH Indonesia has worked to address these challenges through practical community-based programs that support both children and their caregivers.
By combining nutrition, education, maternal support, mental health awareness, and women’s empowerment, the organization takes a holistic approach to improving the wellbeing of Indonesian families and helping children reach their full potential. (FMCH Indonesia)
