LENDING A HELPING HAND WITH JABS AND JOBS
NGOs in Delhi-NCR are helping differently abled get vaccinated and battle other Covid-19 woes
The second Covid-19 wave has only deepened the wounds inflicted on the differently abled; many have even lost their source of livelihood and are forced to depend on others for survival. And, there’s the larger challenge of getting vaccinated.
It isn’t easy for a differently-abled person to reach a vaccination centre, due to factors including lack of convenient transport and accessibility inside the premises. Recently, the Delhi government said that dedicated vaccination centres must be set up for persons with disabilities — one in every zone — but this alone, many feel, isn’t enough.
To ease the hardships of the differently abled, NGOs in Delhi-NCR have been working round the clock. For instance, to get a shot, visitors need to present the necessary PwD document as a proof of disability. “Some people don’t have ration or PwD cards. We are trying to help get
We are hoping to find skill-based employment for those who lost their jobs due to the pandemic. PRADEEP KUMAR,
From NGO Nipun
these made,” says Pradeep Kumar from the NGO Nipun, which has identified dozens of differently abled in Paschim Vihar’s JJ cluster. “There are people who are mentally challenged, hearing and speech impaired; some are even bedridden, with no caretakers! Through a door-to-door survey, we collect their details and provide requirements such as dry ration, masks and sanitisers,” he adds. Loss of livelihood seems to be a bigger challenge. “Many SOS calls from differently-abled persons have been about funds for rent and utility,” says George Abraham from Score Foundation, which works for the visually impaired. “Under our Eyeway Network initiative, we operate a national toll-free number (1800 53 20469), where people call with questions and requests. Not just physical well-being, mental health also needs to be addressed. Our counsellors are reaching out to the visually impaired to ensure they are doing okay,” adds Abraham.
Helping the differently abled procure ration is Viklang Sahara Samiti Delhi. “We facilitate online payment at various shops where they can collect their essentials by providing payment details. We are also offering home delivery,” says Kapil Aggarwal from the NGO.