In a recently completed intervention study, more than 50% of children in Lusaka were found to be stunted by age two, even when nutritional supplements were provided. It seems likely that these high rates of stunting are primarily due to inadequate basic nutritional intake. The main goal of this project is investigate this conjecture through a small pilot study that will be conducted in the urban area of Lusaka.

This is very small cluster-randomized trial, with 64 families recruited from 4 selected neighbourhoods. 2 of these neighbourhoods will be selected for nutritional counselling and food support.

Children ages 6-12 months old and their caregivers will be included. Exclusion criteria: low birth weight; planning to move; twins.

All families will complete a baseline and endline assessment - each lasting approximately 30-45 minutes.

Children in the two intervention clusters will receive a visit every two weeks to discuss child nutrition, and to monitor height and weight gains. We will also provide additional food/groceries to mothers in the treatment group, i.e. to the 32 families in the two neighborhoods selected for treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:Only children who are 6-12 months old at the time of recruitment and their caregivers in selected areas will be eligible for the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

• expected to move
• no child health card
• participating in cash transfer programs