ATE’s SNAP programme is an inspiring example of a community led group which is not only offering the families of disabled children fantastic support, but has also resulted in unprecedented social change through tackling the stigma of disability and changing minds in this remote part of Upper West Ghana.

Being disabled in this part of the world Picture1can be enormously challenging. Disability is often seen as a curse and disabled children killed at birth. Many of the parents of ATE’s SNAP children have shown enormous courage and devotion in fighting against the norms of their culture to keep their disabled children alive, but this can still result in the families being shunned by the community leading to the children being kept indoors for long periods of time.

Through ATE’s SNAP programme the lives of these children and families are being dramatically improved. The ATE SNAP group has been meeting monthly since 2012 and there are now 2 groups, one in Lawra and one in Jirapa. This is a stunningly low cost and effective programme supporting 155 families monthly.

28 children are now attending mainstream school as a direct result of the cultural shift in attitude resulting from the SNAP programme

 

 

The following quotes are a representative example of the feedback from the parents about the programmes:

“This group has changed everything for me. I feel part of something. I now have support. Life is easier, life is better.”

“SNAP has changed my attitude. I thought my child was the only one who had these problems, but he is not. There are other mothers in the same position as me.”

“This workshop is the best thing in my life. It is always a happy day”

 

You can help us continue with this wonderful programme by donating here:

https://mydonate.bt.com/charities/actionthroughenterprise

 

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Pip Gardner 16/3/16