Disabilities Program Updates

While this new year has definitely brought the heat to Kisumu (as in constant sweating at all hours of the day), it's also brought a lot of great things to DCM! Recently we've welcomed two short-term teams from America - the first to visit and report on Project 24 Rescue Centers, and the second to visit and witness our disabilities ministry programs.

Sospeter, DCM's Disabilities Program Manager, addresses a group
from the US and teachers at the Lutheran Special
School for the Mentally Handicapped

A great part of our work here has also been to visit the homes and workplaces of participants in our disabilities program. DCM works to support mentally and physically disabled young adults who have graduated from the Lutheran Special School for the Mentally Handicapped or another vocational school specialized for persons with disabilities. While the job climate in Kenya makes it hard for most people to find work, those who are disabled suffer from even greater barriers to gaining employment. 

Tim with DCM staff workers Mary and Sospeter
during a visit to Vincent's homestead - a program
participant skilled in carpentry and metal working

DCM has successfully helped facilitate employment for over 40 young adults with disabilities so they are able to not be seen as a burden to their family or society, but a contributing, valuable member. Employments include things such as selling sodas, cleaning, knitting, carpentry, poultry keeping, and more. 

Megan visiting Lorine and her friend at their electric loom.
Although she suffered from polio, Lorine is able to support
herself and her grandmother with sales of school
sweaters and scarves (even with the 90 degree heat!)

This year, DCM aims to build community homes for persons with disabilities, increase the number of disabled self-help groups, integrate more students with disabilities to learn in classes with other students, complete the new hospital specializing in care for the disabled, assist more disabled young adults with vocational support, and more. With these efforts and constant advocacy for disabled persons, the stigma around them in Kenya will continue to lessen as more view them as part of God's perfect creation.