The Government of Timor-Leste, UNICEF and the United Kingdom's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office reported on 27 August 2026 that the Children's Health, Nutrition and Nurturing Care Enhancement in Timor-Leste (CHANCE-TL) programme had been completed, strengthening community-based nutrition services.

According to the release, more than 7,000 children were reached, and 112 mother support groups and 86 health workers in the municipalities of Baucau and Viqueque gained skills in nutrition counselling, regular screening for acute malnutrition, treatment referrals and recommended feeding practices for infants and young children. The programme also supported national dialogue on food systems and children's diets during the first 1,000 days of life, and improved referral pathways between communities and health services.

Komar Mendonca of Timor-Leste's national food and nutrition security council said the project's evidence and lessons should continue to guide policy. UK Minister Counsellor (Development) Peter Rajadiston and UNICEF Timor-Leste Representative Patrizia DiGiovanni also commented on the community capacity and evidence built through the programme. The release states that child malnutrition remains one of the greatest barriers to children's health, learning and future opportunities in Timor-Leste.