More than 8 million children around the world live in institutions. They grow up without a family, without love and attention, without hope for the future. Those with disabilities are usually just kept fed, washed and dressed.
UAFA has been working with two institutions for children with disabilities, since 2001. During our first visit, every single children was either kept in bed or sat on a bench all day, every day. Their sight, touch, movement, speech and understanding was that of a small child, even those who were many years older.
Since 2001, 1400 children with disabilities have benefited from UAFA’s child development services at Residential Institution # 2 in Saray district.
Since 2003, 1700 children with disabilities have benefited from UAFA’s child development services at Residential Institution # 1 in Shagan district.
Since 2017, 40 children with disabilities have benefited from UAFA’s child development services at Mashtaga Psychiatric Institution.
Over these years, UAFA has changed the lives of these children to the extent that all children are active every day. Many now return home, some get an education, some can work.
Teams of trained child development specialists and volunteers work with the children every day. They are involved in all aspects of the children’s lives and train the local carers employed by the institutions.
- They run the following activities:
- Rehabilitation sessions, using play, occupational therapy and active learning
- Arts and music activities
- Sports therapy
- Cooking and gardening activities
- Special education classes
Our goal is to introduce Minimum Standards of Care and help the institutions transition away from residential care towards respite and rehabilitation. All children should grow up in a family.
