APCOI – Associação Portuguesa Contra a Obesidade Infantil
Who are they?
APCOI is a Portuguese NGO that works daily to help children grow up happier and healthier. Founded in 2010 by families concerned about the prevention of childhood obesity, it works closely with schools, families and health professionals.
Their mission?
Combating childhood obesity in Portugal by promoting healthy and sustainable lifestyle habits. APCOI focuses on nutritional education, encouraging physical activity, and raising awareness of the risks associated with childhood obesity.
For example, according to APCOI, their “Heróis da Fruta” program (Heróis da Fruta increased daily fruit and vegetable consumption in schools by 12.9% during the academic year…) :
- Scope of the programme: The latest edition of the “Heróis da Fruta” programme involved 3,522 classes and 79,128 children aged 3 to 11 years from 1,105 schools. Of these, 764 classes (14,953 children) from 389 schools across Portugal were included in the impact study sample.
- In 2023/2024, the “Heróis da Fruta” programme increased the daily consumption of fruit and vegetables in participating schools by 12.9%
- Lancheiras Saudáveis: Between the beginning and the end of the program, there was a 22.6% increase in children bringing more nutritious food in their lunch box daily to eat at school.
Why did we choose to partner with APCOI?
- APCOI works directly with children and families in communities most affected by childhood obesity.
- Their approach focuses on prevention and education, giving children the tools to make healthy choices throughout their lives.
- Supporting APCOI means investing in the future of Portuguese children’s health.
- APCOI carries out concrete actions on the ground, with measurable results and a positive impact on children’s health.
- Supporting APCOI means contributing to a healthier and more equitable society, where all children have the opportunity to grow up in good shape.