Ethnic communities in the northernmost part of Vietnam are gaining educational opportunities for students--including supplemental school feedings--and improving their health and hygiene, with the support of Church World Service and denominational partners.

A CWS health and hygiene promotion program is enhancing ongoing integrated area development work with poor ethnic communities in Muong Te district, Lai Chau province. Activities include supplemental school feeding for ethnic minority students in kindergarten, more training for village health workers, and planning for Information Education Communication, the educational campaign conducted by project staff, teachers, and various groups with their communities on the benefits of health and hygiene.

CWS projects are improving the health and education of ethnic minority groups in Pho Yen and Dai Tu districts, Thai Nguyen province, as well as supporting education and implementing and developing social work programs. Past support has included the completion of a filtered water supply system that serves 80 village households, two schools, one health clinic, and one post office; the building of new primary school classrooms, dormitories and libraries; and the provision of numerous teaching aids in Phuc Thuan community, Thai Nguyen province.