A Future for the “Useless”
In a country where even most of the able-bodied and intelligent struggle to provide basic necessities for themselves and their families, those with mental or physical disabilities are often simply left by the wayside of life. Crossroads’ partner in Bangladesh has a long record of providing therapy and opportunities for such people to achieve more of their potential and become respected members of the community.
“These goods symbolize care, recognition and positive change” NGO director
Above: Despite local opticians being able to grind precision lenses at low cost, the cost of frames puts eyeglasses beyond the reach of many. This girl is one of hundreds of children who has benefitted from the frames sent by Crossroads.
Our partner’s rehabilitation and therapy centre provides treatment for about one hundred people each month and the equipment sent in this shipment has saved them more than half a million dollars, which will go towards expanding their services.
The computers sent have gone to expanding their training programme and enabling selected graduates to start their own businesses as well as upgrading the NGO office.
Clothing and stationery were distributed among more than six hundred grassroots families whose livelihoods have been affected by the need to care for one or more handicapped members.
One of our partner’s volunteers reported, “New clothes mean more than just warmth and comfort – they are a reminder that kindness and hope still exist in the world, even in the face of overwhelming challenges.”
Above: Hospital equipment ranging from orthopaedic boots through industrial grade air purifiers to hospital beds and wheelchairs were gratefully received by the rehabilitation centre run by our partner NGO.
Above: Emran’s physical disability left him unemployed for many years but completion of a training programme and a computer from Crossroads now allows him to run his own business.
Above: Provision of new clothes and stationery means that this girl’s family will not need to skip meals in order to purchase essential supplies for her to start school.
