Written by: Galya Tregenza Hall
Article source: Supplied

Central to the mandate and vision of the Women’s International Zionist Organisation (WIZO) is doing what matters and making a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Through the kindness of generous donors, WIZO SA has been able to purchase top of the range, Israeli-designed wheelchairs for children and distribute them across South Africa. These wheelchairs have been designed, developed and manufactured by Israeli NGO, Wheelchairs of Hope, an organisation that seeks to provide wheelchairs to children in need of mobility. They can be used for children between 5-9 years of age and up to 40kg who have enough independent back strength to support themselves in a sitting position. Since 2018 WIZO SA has distributed more than 180 wheelchairs.

Despite the various challenges that the Covid-19 pandemic has brought, along with the restrictive measures of the different lockdowns, WIZO South Africa has continued to actively make a difference in the lives of children who have faced many trials and traumas.

Over the last 6 months In Cape Town a wheelchair was given to a child at Sunrise Special Care Centre and to two children at the Sive Nathi Children’s home. A brave, 9 year old girl named Zaarah who had to have her leg amputated because of bone cancer also received a wheelchair and it has significantly transformed her life. In Johannesburg, we were delighted to give 6 wheelchairs to children at Afrika Tikkun’s Community Centre, 5 to the Kutullo Disability Care Centre and at the Ithembelihle School, 15 children received wheelchairs. In Durban, 6 children received wheelchairs through the Association for the Physically Challenged.

WIZO SA has been honoured to be part of something that has enabled children with disabilities to become mobile, remain healthy and participate more fully in community life. This mobility is a key factor in building the children’s self-esteem and helping to create a better future for them and their families.

Since 2017 over 5000 children across 6 continents have received a wheelchair of hope and we at WIZO SA are proud to be a part of this amazing Israeli initiative. Hope deferred can make the heart sick and this is why it has been incredibly heart-warming to see little children regain some hope and optimism. These wheelchairs have really made a big difference in the lives of all who have received them, and WIZO SA is privileged to have had the opportunity to be involved in giving hope and a future to all these precious children.

If you know of any children, schools, organisations or institutions that could benefit from one of these wheelchairs or if you would like to support this work financially, please email wizosouthafrica@gmail.com

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Date published: 14/03/2021
Feature image: WIZO – Doing What Matters! – Galya Tregenza Hall

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