In a remarkable endeavour aimed at uplifting the lives of persons living with disabilities (PwDs), Caritas India’s Community Based Rehabilitation (CI CBR), a prominent programme, is making profound strides towards fostering social inclusion and productivity. Among the numerous challenges faced by PwDs, the constraint of independent mobility stands out as a significant hurdle, often arising from impairments as well as societal and environmental barriers.

This transformative journey is guided by the recognition that beyond surgical and therapeutic interventions, the provision of assistive devices is pivotal in enhancing mobility and, thereby, the quality of life for PwDs. With unwavering determination, CI CBR has taken upon itself the task of delivering these essential devices to those who need them most. Through a collaborative effort with like-minded organisations, the CI CBR has successfully provided a lifeline to those facing mobility challenges, making a profound impact on their lives.

In a recent initiative spearheaded by CI CBR, the programme has collaborated with partners such as the Rotary Club, Bangalore, and the Association of Physically Disabled (APD), Bangalore, to facilitate the distribution of wheelchairs to 43 PwDs in Kolar district and 30 PwDs in Bangalore. The combined efforts of these entities saw an investment of Rs. 7,74,000 and Rs. 6 lahks, a testament to their commitment to empowering and enabling the mobility of PwDs.

Further extending their impact, CI CBR joined forces with Flexmotive and the Voice of Specially Abled People (VOSAP) to mobilise an assortment of assistive devices, including walkers, crutches, and elbow sticks. This endeavour directly benefited 250 PwDs in the Kolar district, infusing an estimated sum of Rs. 4 lahks into providing them with quality, adjustable, and lightweight devices that promise to reshape their mobility experience.

An inspiring highlight of these efforts was the distribution event held at the Bethamangala Gramme Panchayat office premises. A total of 105 PwDs were personally identified to receive these devices, symbolising the tangible impact on their lives. The event was graced by esteemed guests, including Mr. Pranav Desai, Founder of Voice of the Specially Abled, and Ms. Niyati, Chief Operating Officer of VOSAP, who joined virtually from the US and Ahmadabad offices, while Mr. Bhaskar and Mr. Sandeep, the two volunteers representing VOSAP, were present in person. Mr. Adepu Sreenivas, Founder of Flexmotive, was also present to facilitate the process. The local guests from the Government include Mr. Muddanna, Deputy Director of the Women and Child Welfare Department, and Mr. Munirajappa, Deputy Director of Disabled Welfare, who were present as Guests. The President, Vice President, ward members, and other officials of the Gramme Panchayat were present at the event.

The journey did not stop there. In Mulbagal town, an additional 89 PwDs were the recipients of assistive devices in another organised event. Volunteers of VOSAP, Mr. Nikunjbhai and Mr. Lalith Kumar, Mr. Sreenivas of Flexmotive, Ms.Shoba Rani from Mulbagal Panchayat, Mr. Munirajappa, and DDWO Mr. Siva Kumar from Block Resource Centre were present as Guests to distribute the devices. The unwavering support from volunteers, partners, and local officials showcased the community’s collective dedication to transforming the lives of those who often navigate challenges unseen.

With a heartening history of distributing assistive devices to 54 PwDs previously, CI CBR’s efforts have facilitated enhanced social inclusion and productivity. As they continue to explore avenues for aiding even more PwDs, their mission is set to inspire even greater change.

The impact of these assistive devices and wheelchairs goes far beyond enhanced mobility. They pave the way for improved social, educational, and economic inclusion, marking a significant stride towards equality and empowerment. CI CBR’s dedication serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the immense potential for positive change when organisations, communities, and individuals come together to empower those who deserve it most.