Haiti: "Disabled children are most vulnerable"

Programs for children living with a disability are vital in countries like Haiti.

When the earthquake struck Port-au-Prince, CBM immediately mobilised to provide support to children and adults with disabilities through our partners on the ground in Haiti, and with national and international bodies focused on emergency response, vulnerable populations and disability.

Two children who have received treatment and support from CBM-supported projects in earthquake damaged Port-au-Prince. Photo:CBM

CBM, with the help of other international supporters, set out to establish 10 Child Day Care Centres to address the needs of children - especially children with disabilities in post-quake Port-au-Prince. The children in these day care centres have access to a safe place, non-formal education, play, therapy and follow-up care based on the individual's needs.

While access to therapy and assistive devices for children with physical disabilities is clearly needed, other needs are often less visible but equally important. For example, children with epilepsy need access to medication. Supplies of medication was affected by the extensive infrastructure damage caused by the earthquake.

Children are most at risk

Children with disability are particularly vulnerable in emergency situations and require focused protection measures. Access to non-formal education and child centered spaces is particularly critical for children with disability and children who are injured, as they are likely to be left out of relief efforts.

Children with and without disability have gone through a highly traumatic experience and are at risk of developing psychological trauma.

CBM’s advisers in the areas of mental health and physical disabilities have conducted support visits and prepared recommendations for the next rehabilitative steps.

CBM has been working in Haiti since 1976.