Mobilizing the “Invisible” in India
Can you imagine being invisible for a day? You attempt to complete your daily duties, but no one acknowledges or talks to you. You try to buy groceries, but the cashier will not take your money. You scream out for someone to help you, but not one person looks your way. This imaginary scene is like reality for the 40-80 million disabled individuals in India.
Disabled people face discrimination on a daily basis in India. Social stigmas, physical challenges and financial constraints lead some families to disown their disabled loved ones, and many end up homeless. Illiteracy among the disabled in India is up to 52 percent, and without education or job skills, many must assume the life of a beggar. Cast into the margins of Indian society, many disabled individuals truly feel invisible.
However, India Partners is providing a new life for many disabled individuals in India! Together with our partner, Agape Rehabilitation Center, India Partners is providing job training for the disabled, as well as a hostel where disabled students can find a safe and accepting place to live and grow. These students also have the opportunity to hear about Christ’s perfect love for them - a truth that brings joy and healing to many of the students.
Paavai is a disabled woman who recently finished a handicrafts training program offered at Agape Rehabilitation Center. During this two-month program, Paavai and seven other female students learned how to make arts and crafts using palm leaves. Equipped with her new skill, Paavai takes pride in her work and has reaffirmed her God-given dignity.
However, Paavai’s disabilities were limiting her ability to get her crafts to the market. To help Paavai overcome this obstacle, India Partners and Agape were able to provide her with a hand-powered tricycle, increasing her independence and ability to sell her crafts for income. Upon receiving the tricycle, Paavai said, “I am happy for this tricycle because now I do not have to depend upon others to go out.”
Prepared with job skills, personal mobility and a loving community, Paavai is confident that she can face the challenges of her daily life.
You too can provide hope and mobility to disabled individuals like Paavai!
Donate a wheelchair or a hand-powered tricycle for $115.
Click donate now and select “Wheelchairs and Tricycles” from the drop-down menu. Thank you.
Donate to Agape Rehabilitation Center to continue their work among disabled individuals - suggested donation of $50
Click donate now and select “Agape Rehabilitation Center” from the drop-down menu. Thank you.
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