International Day of Persons with Disabilities
I am Jeri. When I was in my community, everybody neglected me and all because of my disability. But now I am at The Sreepur Village, everybody loves me as a normal human being. I can eat properly, I can play here, and I have a teacher who teaches me. Now, because of The Sreepur Village, I am very happy.
Bangladesh has prioritised “disability” as one of the major thematic areas of its development agenda. The country has already put necessary policy frameworks in place to ensure disability-inclusive development. The number of persons with disabilities in Bangladesh is estimated at about 15 million. However, persons with disabilities have limited access to medical services. Access to education for them is also very poor.
Studies have revealed that disability has a devastating effect on the quality of life of the disabled people with a particularly negative effect on their marriage, educational attainment, employment, and emotional state.
No comprehensive empirical study has been conducted at present to determine the incidence and prevalence of disabilities in Bangladesh. The few studies that have been conducted reflect a medical rather than a social model of disability, and they are also limited in geographical coverage. While no reliable national data exists, anecdotal information and a number of micro studies generally suggests a disability prevalence rate of between 5 to 12 per cent. This is close to the WHO estimate, which states that 10 per cent of any given population can be considered to have some or other form of disability.
Ignorance and wrong beliefs surrounding disability, compounded with a negative and derogatory attitude of the community (including family members) have contributed to the marginal development in the disability sector in Bangladesh.
The Sreepur Village provides life-saving services to women and children, regardless of their abilities, and with education, 24/7 care, nutrition, and training more families are given hope for a brighter future.
Every donation means the world to our women and children, as it means they can look forward to a life full of possibility without poverty or fear.