a child with special needs receives the vitamins she needs

Holt’s New Research: Closing the Nutrition Gap for Children with Disabilities

Holt International’s latest policy brief reveals that children with disabilities often face inconsistent and incomplete nutrition services.

Holt’s study highlights that children with disabilities are often excluded from vital nutrition and health programs. The research, published in PLOS Global Public Health, reviewed global resources and interviewed experts to identify gaps and strengths.

Holt’s key finding is that children with disabilities face inconsistent and incomplete nutrition services.

Why it matters: Without inclusive guidance, these children are at greater risk for malnutrition and preventable health issues.

Takeaway: More than resources, we need standardized, actionable guidance and greater investment in training, accessibility, and inclusion.

Nutrition inclusion is essential.

Fulford K, DeLacey E, Beckerlegge F, Hayes J, de Silva H, et al. (2026) Children with disabilities in nutrition programmes: Thematic analysis of training and guidelines. PLOS Global Public Health 6(4): e0006188. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pgph.0006188

Support Holt’s Child Nutrition Program

Your gift to Holt’s child nutrition program will provide life-changing nutrition and feeding support to children living in poverty and in orphanages around the world.

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