Access to healthcare is a fundamental human right, yet many orphaned children with disabilities in developing countries face significant barriers in obtaining the medical care they desperately need. World Forgotten Children Foundation (WFCF) recognizes the unique challenges these children encounter and is dedicated to addressing their healthcare needs through targeted support and sustainable initiatives.

Challenges Faced by Orphaned Children With Disabilities

• Limited Access to Healthcare Facilities: In many developing regions, healthcare infrastructure is inadequate. Rural areas often lack clinics, and those that do exist may be poorly equipped. This scarcity of facilities makes it difficult for orphaned children with disabilities to receive timely and appropriate medical care.
• Financial Constraints: Orphaned children often lack the financial resources to access healthcare services. Many facilities and families in underprivileged communities are struggling to meet basic needs, leaving little room in their budgets for medical expenses. This economic strain disproportionately affects children with disabilities, who may require specialized care, therapies, and equipment.
• Lack of Trained Healthcare Professionals: In many developing countries, there is a shortage of healthcare professionals trained to address the specific needs of children with disabilities. This lack of expertise can lead to misdiagnoses or inadequate treatment, further exacerbating health issues.
• Social Stigma: Children with disabilities often face social stigma and discrimination, which can prevent them from receiving the care they need. In some communities, cultural beliefs may lead to a lack of understanding about disabilities, resulting in neglect or mistreatment.
• Transportation Barriers: Many orphaned children live in remote areas, making it challenging to travel to healthcare facilities. The lack of reliable transportation can delay treatment and worsen health outcomes.

WFCF's Commitment to Addressing Healthcare Needs

WFCF is dedicated to breaking down these barriers and ensuring that orphaned children with disabilities receive the medical care they need. Here are some of the ways WFCF is making a difference:

• Healthcare Initiatives: A year after the pandemic disrupted the lives of many, WFCF set out to raise funds for the equitable distribution of COVID-19 vaccines to developing regions that have been largely left out of the global vaccine supply. While citizens of developed countries saw the pandemic waning due to increased vaccinations, many in lower-income countries still lack access to vaccines. In March 2022, with the help of donors, WFCF allocated $500 via the Charities Aid Foundation to COVAX, ensuring fair and equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines worldwide.
• Financial Assistance Programs: In September 2020, WFCF contributed $6,459 USD to provide essential mobility equipment for three children supported by International China Concern (ICC). This funding enabled the purchase of a high-quality x:panda wheelchair, a transport buggy, and a Crocodile walker, all designed by Etac (formerly R82), a globally renowned developer of ergonomic mobility aids. These specialized tools enhance the children's independence and quality of life, ensuring they receive the support they need at every stage of their journey.
• Facility Improvements for Care of Disabled Children: On October 4, 2021, WFCF funded $9,179 USD to Diema's Dream to equip the Arzamas Orphanage with a sanitary room for children with sensory modulation disorder (SMD), who are rarely adopted. The room provides a safe, comfortable space for hygiene care, featuring an electric lift that enables injury-free movement through various enclosures, controlled remotely by caretakers for the children's comfort.
• Community Education and Awareness: In 2014, WFCF funded $6,564 for the Center of Mobility and Stimulation of Children with Disabilities (CESEH) in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. Managed by BICE, this project equipped the facility with mobility devices and provide specific medications, improving the quality of life for 110 children with disabilities.
• COVID-19 Vaccination and Information Dissemination: On January 13, 2023, WFCF funded $4,000 to the Kocebuka Community Foundation in Zambia for immediate COVID-19 information dissemination, vaccination, and behavior change communication. This effort led to an increase in vaccination coverage from 45% to 67% across the district, despite initial apathy.

Final Thoughts

Ensuring medical access for orphaned children with disabilities is not just a matter of healthcare—it's a matter of human rights and dignity. WFCF is committed to addressing the unique challenges these children face by providing innovative solutions, financial support, and community education. By working together, we can create a world where every child, regardless of their circumstances, has access to the medical care they need to thrive. Information for all WFCF-funded projects can be found on our website.

Help Make A Difference: Donate to WFCF