Strong Start
We support early childhood development, maternal and child nutrition, healthcare access, caregiver education, school readiness, vision care and disability inclusion - giving every rural child the foundation to thrive.
Every child deserves a strong beginning
A child's earliest years shape health, learning and development for the rest of that child's life.
But many rural children enter primary school without having had consistent access to early care, education, adequate nutrition, healthcare or support for a disability.
Reaching children early can change the trajectory of their lives. Dependable early care and education can also give mothers and caregivers the time they need to pursue training, employment and greater economic security.
of children ages 3–4 in the Philippines are not participating in early childhood education.
Philippines · Data: 2022 · UNICEF Philippines, citing PSA APIS ↗
of children under five in the Philippines are stunted. The national rate has changed very little over approximately two decades.
Philippines · Data: 2023 · UNICEF and PIDS ↗
children worldwide lack access to adequate childcare. Quality childcare can strengthen child development, support women's employment and create jobs within the care economy.
World · Published: 2026 · World Bank ↗
children worldwide are estimated to live with disabilities. Children with disabilities are less likely to receive early stimulation, develop foundational skills or attend school.
World · Published: 2021 · UNICEF ↗
A strong start requires more than one intervention. It means connecting early care and education with nutrition, healthcare, caregiver support and disability inclusion during the years when those investments can have lifelong effects.
What APLFI supports on the ground
- Community-run early childhood centers with daily nutrition and play-based learning.
- Maternal and child nutrition support during the first 1,000 days.
- Disability inclusion - reflecting Apl's own early experience with nystagmus.
- Caregiver education and monthly coaching for parents and kin caregivers.
- School-readiness bridges between home, daycare, and primary school.
- Vision care and screening for young children.
Current programs
All projects →PUNLA - Proof of Concept in Brooke's Point
PUNLA means "seedling" in Filipino. It is a community-led initiative of Apl.de.Ap Foundation International that uses school farms to nourish children, support mothers, and help families build a more secure future.
Creating with the Sisters of Mary Schools
A student music and creative-industry collaboration, centered on an original Christmas song recorded on campus with professional producers.
Khan Academy at Sapang Bato
A learning partnership putting free world-class coursework, devices, and a working internet connection into the high school where Apl grew up.
Backing Filipino Creatives
Removing the cost barriers that keep talented Filipino artists from getting their work in front of the world.
Fund strong start, or explore a partnership.
Every conversation starts with a person, not a checkout. Tell us what you're hoping to build and we'll match you with the right lead.
We strengthen the health, knowledge, agency and economic security of women and caregivers so they can support their families and build stronger futures across generations.
We strengthen access to nutritious food, local production, nutrition knowledge and the community systems that help rural families remain nourished through everyday life and times of disruption.
We prepare rural people and institutions for changing economies by building the skills, leadership and local capacity needed for resilient agriculture, renewable energy and related rural livelihoods.