With a population of 2.8 million, Albania is one of the poorest countries in Europe. Despite numerous government measures, the economy has stagnated since 2009. Corruption, nepotism and organized crime stand in the way of an upturn. The majority of the population lives on the breadline. The situation is particularly precarious in rural areas.
The plight of the population
In Albania, the healthcare system is hardly supported by the state. There is hardly any help, especially for families with children with disabilities. In rural areas, many people believe that a disability is a punishment from God. Many families therefore hide their children and live in seclusion. These children do not receive the support they need to develop. The parents often feel overwhelmed and left alone. The financial situation exacerbates the problem: therapies and support programs are expensive and many families cannot afford them.
Our project work
Pogradec
Since 2023, we have been associated with the rehabilitation, support and meeting center "Qendra Drita e Shpresës" (Light of Hope Center) in Pogradec, near Lake Ohrid. The center is an important project in the region. Parents and children come from far and wide to get the help they need, which should be a matter of course. Qendra Drita e Shpresës offers many therapy options. A team of various specialists - occupational therapists, speech therapists, physiotherapists and psychologists - help the children. They promote the motor, linguistic, physiological and psychological development of the girls and boys. The center is a place of hope and support for many families.
Strong parents for strong children
Working with parents is an important part of our work. Parents are actively involved in the therapeutic process. In addition to practical tips, they are given space to share their fears and worries. In the therapy sessions, parents are encouraged and strengthened in dealing with their children. As a result, many parents regain the confidence to appear in public and participate in social life. Thanks to the therapy, they realize how much potential their child has if they receive individual support.
Be a ray of hope: By sponsoring a child, you give a girl or boy with a disability the individual support and guidance they need. Become a sponsor!