In August 2023, HCP Cure Blindness embarked on a profound mission to Accra, Ghana, where they conducted a week-long series of eye care trainings and surgeries. Their goal? To not only deliver sight-restoring surgeries but also to build local capacity and provide top-notch patient care. This remarkable initiative brought together a dedicated team from HCP, including their co-founder, Dr. Geoff Tabin, who collaborated with Ghanaian doctors and medical personnel at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra and Watborg Eye Services in Obutu. Together, they transformed lives through nearly 400 sight-restoring surgeries.

These life-changing outreaches were made possible, in part, by the support of PROBAR, who provided crucial in-kind support by offering their delicious, plant-based, and nutritious protein and meal-replacement bars to nourish both the medical personnel and patients involved in this mission of compassion and healing.

One of the individuals whose life was touched by this initiative is Robert, a 65-year-old man hailing from central Ghana. Robert had been living in darkness for nearly three decades due to advanced cataracts. This debilitating condition forced him to give up his livelihood as a fisherman, and he relied on the care of his only brother for many years. Tragedy struck when Robert's brother passed away, leaving him alone and facing a bleak future.

It was during a free eye screening conducted by HCP's partner, Watborg Eye Clinic, that Robert's path to recovery began. The screening diagnosed Robert's cataracts, and shortly after, he was transported to the clinic for a life-changing surgery to remove both of his cataracts. This procedure brought light back into Robert's world, fully restoring his sight.

Overwhelmed with gratitude, Robert shared, "I am thankful for a smooth surgery and am confident that my sight will continue to improve as I heal. Before this surgery, I could barely see. With my walking stick, I navigated my way by groping my environment for obstacles. I have a cassava farm, and I am eager to return home to oversee work on it. Through this, I can work again and be self-sufficient."

Robert's story is just one shining example of the incredible impact that HCP Cure Blindness and their dedicated partners have on individuals in underserved communities. These life-changing initiatives not only restore vision but also reignite hope and self-sufficiency in the lives of those who have suffered from vision impairment.

Through their collaborative efforts and the support of organizations like PROBAR, HCP Cure Blindness continues to make a profound difference in the world, one restored vision at a time. Their commitment to building local capacity ensures that the impact of their work extends far beyond individual surgeries, creating a lasting legacy of healing and empowerment in communities around the globe.

Parents are always their kid’s number one cheerleaders, and one awesome way to help your child out from the sidelines is building them lunches that set them up for success.

By providing a nutritious and delicious school lunch that fuels their bodies and minds throughout the day, your kids can thrive academically, stay energized, and develop healthy eating habits that will benefit them for a lifetime. In this article, we'll explore four valuable tips on how to make your kids a bomb school lunch that they will love and benefit from.

1. Ditch the Plastic Bags and Invest in a Reusable Bento Box

The first step to creating a fantastic school lunch is to opt for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging. Say goodbye to single-use plastic bags and embrace the versatility of reusable bento boxes. These multi-compartment lunch containers help separate different food items without the need for wasteful bags. Additionally, they present an excellent opportunity to educate your kids about essential food groups.

By using a bento box, children can visually see their proteins, whole grains, and fruits/vegetables, which makes learning about balanced nutrition more engaging. Moreover, this small change in packaging will significantly reduce plastic waste, contributing to a healthier planet for future generations.

2. Keep Hot Foods Hot and Cold Foods Cold

Nobody enjoys a lukewarm meal, especially when it comes to school lunches. To ensure your kids' lunches are as appetizing as possible, invest in the proper equipment to maintain the right temperature. High-quality thermoses are essential for preserving the warmth of soups, pasta dishes, or other hot items. Similarly, ice packs will keep sandwiches and perishable snacks fresh and cool until lunchtime.

Use this opportunity to teach your children about which foods are most perishable or temperature sensitive. Understanding food safety will help them make informed choices in the future and avoid consuming anything potentially harmful.

3. Give Your Child Input on Their Lunchbox (Within Reason)

Empowering your children to have some say in their lunchbox choices can lead to more enthusiasm about their meals. While you still want to ensure they're getting a nutritious meal, offering them a degree of creative license can make a significant difference. Allow them to choose between healthy options, like a PROBAR PEAK bar or carrots and hummus for a snack.

When kids feel involved in the decision-making process, they are more likely to enjoy their meals and develop a positive relationship with food. Remember to strike a balance between their preferences and the nutritional value of the items they choose.

4. Incorporate Energy and Brain-Boosting Foods

To keep your kids energized and focused throughout the school day, incorporate foods that boost brain function and provide sustained energy. Brain-boosting foods like dark chocolate, nuts, seeds, and berries are rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients that support cognitive function. Energy-boosting options like bananas, yogurt, and beans provide a steady source of fuel to keep them going.

A perfect addition to their lunchbox is the PROBAR PEAK bar, which combines nuts, seeds, and a delightful burst of chocolate in three delicious flavors: chocolate coconut, peanut butter chocolate, and frosted sea salt caramel. These bars are not only nutritious but also a treat that your kids will love!

Making a great school lunch for your kids doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. By investing in reusable bento boxes, using the right equipment to maintain food temperatures, involving your child in the decision-making process, and incorporating energy and brain-boosting foods, you can create lunches that are both nutritious and exciting.

Remember that a well-balanced school lunch plays a crucial role in your child's overall health and development. By following these tips and getting creative with their favorite foods, you can ensure that your kids are set up for success both inside and outside the classroom!