Assistance to the Physically Challenged

A woman in Hais holding a disabled child's hand

Donor: ADRA Canada
Location: Hais and Khokha Districts, Hodeida Governorate
Project Duration: July 2006 — June 2009 (with one–year extension to June 2010)

The Physically Challenged Project began in July, 2006 to help the physically challenged, victims of land mines and ordnances, and other extremely vulnerable community members in Hais and Khokha, Hodeida Governorate in a variety of ways. Through the program, ADRA Yemen seeks to improve the health status of the target group and provide them with the training and resources to become successful, productive members of their families and communities. Additionally, PHY works to raise health awareness and eliminate the stigma of physical challenges in the community.

The project includes the following main activities:

• Providing physiotherapy at the office and in villages
• Training caregivers
• Providing referrals and transportation for treatment at hospitals
• Aquabalancing therapy (water therapy to help release tension in the body)
• Vocational training
• Small loans program
• Awareness raising and health education

Thus far, PHY has made remarkable progress towards achieving the program objectives. Physiotherapy is regularly administered to patients of the target area both in the office and in nearby villages. Patients in nearby towns are regularly referred for treatment of problems related to sight, hearing, and movement. ADRA staff conducts training for caregivers about how to care for and conduct at–home therapy for their disabled friends and family members. Awareness sessions within local schools, women’s groups, and homes have raised the level of awareness about topics such as breast feeding, diarrhea, and nutrition. Training in weaving, sewing, and tailoring has attracted quite a number of students, who are then better able to support themselves and their families. Small Enterprise Development loans have helped both graduates of the training classes and independent entrepreneurs start their own income–generating activities. Aqua–balancing therapy has been conducted and has proven to be a popular activity for patients with movement challenges. Sign language classes are also offered to help improve the ability of deaf or hearing disabled students to communicate with their friends and families, thereby empowering them and improving their chances of success. In cooperation with ADRA International and Yemen Smile, several children also received free cleft palate surgery.