HEARTS of HOPE

Background to Project

In Ghana, some parents of children with special needs face the burden of combating stigma, as society unfairly labels their children as "cursed" individuals. Tragically, some of these children remain confined to their homes throughout their lives to shield them from public ridicule. Moreover, to compound the challenges faced by children with special needs, their mothers often bear the brunt of society's insensitivity. These courageous women, who provide unwavering love and care for their children, endure the weight of hurtful labels and abuses.

It is disheartening to witness how society can stigmatize and discriminate against these mothers, who are already facing the daily struggles of caring for their children with special needs. They are unjustly subjected to negative name-calling, harsh judgments, and verbal or emotional abuse, adding to the emotional burden they carry. This cycle of misunderstanding and mistreatment perpetuates the isolation and marginalization of both the children and their mothers. Such an environment makes it even more challenging for these families to access the support and understanding they need. Recognizing the importance of empathy and compassion, we must strive to create a more inclusive and understanding society. By raising awareness, fostering acceptance, and promoting education about special needs, we can work towards breaking down the barriers that these mothers and their children face.

It is crucial to provide these families with a supportive network that acknowledges their efforts, celebrates their resilience, and offers a helping hand in times of need. Through collective efforts, we can build a world where every child, regardless of their abilities, is embraced with love and where mothers raising children with special needs are respected and appreciated for their strength and dedication. We firmly believe that every child, irrespective of their abilities, deserve equal opportunities and supportive systems to help them reach their full potential. Thus, we acknowledge the urgent need for inclusive health and social policies that can aid this vulnerable population in Ghana, ensuring they are not left behind in the pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

The primary goal of our project is to advocate for diverse support systems and services for children with special needs in Ghana. We recognize the immense challenges parents face while raising a child with special needs, making it imperative to establish necessary support structures.