Some 300,000 children / year worldwide die or are maimed because of a lack of a simple and cheap vitamin (vitamin B9 or folic acid) in their mothers’ diets, which can cause fatal or devastating birth defects such as spina bifida. An estimated 75% of these tragedies could be prevented simply by ensuring that women of childbearing age get the vitamin through food fortification or supplements. Thus, approx. 225,000 babies can be saved each year if this initiative is fully adopted.

The Rotary Club of North Atlanta is working to make a difference, on both the club and International levels. On the club level, the club is partnering with a club in Addis Ababa through a five-year global grant project to provide folic acid to women at high risk. Rotary clubs from other districts are participating partners.

On the international level, the club is a signatory of a letter and resolution to the World Health Assembly (the governing body of W.H.O.) to recommend that countries adopt policies for mandatory fortification of food with folic acid and other essential micronutrients. Joining the club are more than thirty other organizations including UNICEF, the March of Dimes, and the International Rescue Committee. Our unique club logo is included in the letter.

This easily scalable project will save lives, prevent suffering, and promote awareness of this inexpensive opportunity to make a significant impact on child morbidity and mortality around the world. District 6900 clubs interested in participating in the global grant, or anyone seeking additional information is welcome to contact Ralph Peeler, MD at rdpiiimd@comcast.net or Jon Yaeger at jonyaegerrotary@gmail.com.