Disabilities and Inclusion

“Every small step forward for a child with disabilities is a victory worth celebrating.”

– Gena Heraty Director of NPH Haiti’s Special Needs Programs

Our Disabilities and Inclusion Initiative

Our Disability and Inclusion initiative focuses on providing comprehensive care and support for children and adolescents with disabilities, promoting their full development in physical, emotional, economic, and social aspects of their lives. Through the implementation of three essential programs, we address the challenges faced by vulnerable populations in Latin America and the Caribbean

Our Unique Approach

Assisted Residential Care Program

Providing safe and stable residential care options for children and adolescents with severe disabilities who are in situations of abandonment or family crisis.

Special Education Program

Ensuring access to formal education with an emphasis on special and inclusive education, allowing children and adolescents with disabilities to thrive in academic and social environments.

Rehabilitation Program

Offering therapeutic services, including physical, occupational, speech, and language rehabilitation, to promote participation in education, employment, and community life.

OUR WORK BY THE NUMBERS

Inclusive Support

560 direct beneficiaries living with disabilities received support and services

Residential Care

168 children with disabilities living in residential care with NPH.

Children's Inclusion

43 children under 18 living with disabilities.

SUPPORTING THE UNITED NATIONS DEVELOPMENT GOALS

Disabilities in Latin America and the Caribbean

In Latin America and the Caribbean, 85 million people live with disabilities, including 19.1 million children and adolescents (10% of the child population). Many face barriers to education, healthcare, and inclusion, higher risks of violence and abandonment, and stigma limits foster care or adoption options, leading some to under-resourced residential care.

Did you know?

Find out how much you know about Disabilities and Inclusion in Latin America and the Caribbean.

DID YOU KNOW?

Finding Strength and Belonging

Discover the inspiring story of María Isabel, a resilient young woman who found a sense of belonging and purpose at NPH Guatemala, overcoming challenges with courage and determination.

Prevalence of Disabilities

Approximately 12% of the Latin American and Caribbean population lives with at least one disability, amounting to around 66 million individuals.

Economic Inequality

In Peru, 76.8% of individuals with disabilities are not economically active, and among those who work, 58.3% are self-employed, largely due to barriers such as limited job opportunities, lack of workplace accommodations, and inaccessible infrastructure.

Employment Challenges

In Latin America and the Caribbean, about 80–90% of persons with disabilities are unemployed or outside the workforce.

Cultural Stigma

In many Latin American societies, disabilities are still surrounded by stigma, often seen as something to be hidden rather than accommodated. However, grassroots organizations and activists are working hard to change perceptions and push for greater inclusion.

Difficult Beginnings

María Isabel was born with hydrocephalus, a mild intellectual disability, and diplegia. After her mother passed, she came to NPH Guatemala, where she immediately felt a sense of belonging.

Finding a New Home

At NPH, María Isabel works at Tienda Sonrisa, participates in activities, and attends physiotherapy. Aunts Demezia and Myriam are her favorite people, offering her support and understanding.

Finding Independence and Gratitude at NPH

María Isabel is grateful to NPH for the opportunities, friendships, and therapies that help her live a normal life. She dreams of having new walking sticks to ease the pain in her hands.

EXPLORE OUR PROJECTS

Medical Services for Disabilities at NPH Guatemala

NPH Guatemala specializes in medical services for disabilities

Medical Care for Patients with Disabilities at NPH Guatemala

NPH Guatemala offers dedicated medical care for patients with disabilities, providing specialized treatments, therapies, and holistic support to enhance their well-being and independence.

Medical Care for Disabilities in Haiti

NPH Haiti provides compassionate, comprehensive medical care for patients with disabilities, offering specialized treatments, therapies, and support to improve their quality of life.