With generous funding from UNICEF Rwanda, Chance for Childhood has been spearheading a remarkable program called “Family Strengthening and Community-Based Support for Care of Children with Disabilities in Families.” in the Huye and Bugesera Districts in Rwanda.
One of the program’s primary focuses is addressing the critical challenge of providing community-based rehabilitation services to children with cerebral palsy. In rural villages, where these children live, accessing district hospitals for treatment is a significant hurdle. The transportation costs associated with traveling to these hospitals are often unaffordable for many families. Additionally, the distance between these villages and the hospitals can be hours apart. With limited or no access to transportation, it becomes virtually impossible for these families to ensure their children receive the necessary weekly treatment they require.
“When I realised my child had a problem with physical body functioning, I took him to the hospital, and they asked me to take him there three times a week for rehabilitation treatment. I tried for a few weeks, but I couldn’t afford the transportation and other expenses, so I stopped taking him to that service’. The mother said.
To bridge this gap, Chance for Childhood has successfully established 68 community rehabilitation sites in Huye District and an additional 70 in Bugesera District making it easier for parents to access the vital support they need. They have also collaborated with Belgium’s physiotherapy Volunteering group through their project named AMAKURU to provide extra rehabilitation sessions at Kabutare Hospital and have supported 68 children to receive enhanced rehabilitation services.
Early intensive therapeutic sessions of rehabilitation are crucial for children with cerebral palsy, as they enhance muscle control, manage stiffness, and foster independence.
Meet Tom
A 4-year-old boy, that thanks to a community-established rehabilitation site and additional sessions through the AMAKURU project at Kabutare, has been able to see significant improvements in his mobility and independence. By bridging the gap and ensuring access for all, we can unlock the potential of countless children and equip them to thrive.
“I was glad when Chance for Childhood began treating our children in our community; I no longer worry about too much expenses, including transportation costs, because the rehabilitation site is in my neighborhood. Later, Chance for Childhood connected me with other Belgian volunteer physiotherapists who work at Kabutare, where my child receives additional rehabilitation treatment. When I have an appointment with Kabutare, they pay for the necessary transportation. My child has made considerable progress ever since Chance for Childhood and AMAKURU project began treating our children. He couldn’t sit at first, but he eventually became able to. At the moment, he can stand, and I am assisting him in walking with a walking frame. I am confident that my son will be cured as a result of the continued treatment provided by Chance for Childhood and the AMAKURU project.” The mother
Together, we are creating a world where every child has access to the support they need to thrive.
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