On our last day in Kyangwali, we saved a project that might make the biggest impact yet.
There are too many people in Kyangwali who are stuck – people who have a disability or who just can’t get around on their own. They’re stranded at home, only able to connect when people come to visit them or see how they’re doing and if they need anything. We met one young boy who isn’t able to walk. He can only drag himself across the ground – so his clothes are always dusty and dirty. If he wants to go any distance, someone must carry him.
Another elderly gentleman in his 80s has been confined to his home. His neighbors do what they can to take care of him, but it’s hard on them and it’s hard on him.
For these Kyangwali residents, mobility would make all the difference. So – before we moved on from Kyangwali – we purchased and handed over 3 new wheelchairs to help these residents get moving.
“I am very excited,” Agnes, our third wheelchair recipient told us. “Now I can walk on my own, go to church, go to the health center. And when it rains, I won’t be stuck in my home without any way to move about.”
Even as we were handing over the wheelchairs it was obvious what a difference it would make, especially to our young man. Kids were lined up to volunteer pushing him around the settlement. Hopefully it’s an opportunity for him to meet more kids his age, make friends and improve his self-esteem.
