Hope & Wonder

We offer children with special needs a home and take care of them holistically and with lots of love. The premises, the equipment, the staff and the support are designed specifically for children with disabilities so that these children can experience a lot of love and acceptance. We offer families with disabled children advice and support and at the same time raise awareness of the issue of disability in the neighbourhood and the surrounding area. We want to overcome prejudice and discrimination and are committed to equal rights and the participation of all children.

Why do we stand up for disabled people in particular?

Disability is still a big taboo in Tanzania. A lot of it has to do with the traditional belief that disability is a curse. Whole families are considered cursed because of one disabled child and may even be cast out.

However, even without this superstition life with a disabled child in the poor living conditions in Tanzania is far from easy. In most cases, all family members (especially both parents, if they are still around) have to contribute to the family's livelihood and survival. If a family has a disabled child who must be cared for around the clock one source of income is lost.

These are just two of many reasons why disabled children are often abandoned or, worst case, even killed.

If a disabled child is placed in a children's home, there is usually no developmentally appropriate care or special support. In many children's homes, one caregiver is responsible for 20 to 30 children and those who cannot look after themselves quickly perish. Another problem is the lack of information and support for the affected families. Many do not even know what is wrong with their child and how to deal with the situation.

This is exactly where we come in and want to make a big difference on a small scale.