Our Partnerships
This woman makes small pots for sale in Ghana. Photo: Karen Plater.
PWS&D is working with the Presbyterian Church in Ghana to support the education of communities on special needs and dispel myths about differently-abled persons. Through this program, those who are visually impaired, deaf, mute, physically disabled or epileptic learn literacy and vocational skills that will enable them to participate actively in society, such as cloth weaving, shoe repair, or dress making. Many of the graduates go on to start small businesses and share their skills by training apprentices in the community. Children with different abilities are provided with basic school supplies and uniforms and are integrated into the mainstream school system. Differently-abled farmers learn sustainable agriculture techniques to increase crop yields and raise animals. Others receive goats and are trained in their care to further their livelihoods. The centre also advocates for the rights of differently-abled persons and has recently integrated HIV and AIDS education into their programs.
As well, many older women in Ghana who are widows, childless, poor, illiterate or disabled are often suspected of being witches and subsequently banished from their communities. PWS&D is supporting women who have sought refuge in an outcast home, improving their living conditions and educating their communities in order to reintegrate the women into their families.
