We have recently received an update from the project and I have written a summary. The two partner organisations will be directly helping 1000 people to access training and gain employment. They are also working with key government institutions, around 250 employers and alongside 20 other civil society organisations to improve the lives of, and opportunities for people with disabilities.
The wider picture in Lebanon is making things difficult. Lebanon borders Syria and more than half a million refugees have crossed into Lebanon. With such a high number of additional people trying to access public services the infrastructure has been placed under huge strain. Additionally the Lebanese government has been dissolved and elections. Planned for this summer, have been postponed. This is making it difficult for organisations to try and influence policy change at this level.
The YMCA partner has recently purchased a specially adapted vehicle which allows the team to travel around the West Bank carrying out employment assessments for people with disabilities.
Salah was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy when he was 10. He did well at school and achieved good grades. He received counselling from the YMCA which helped to boost his confidence. After finishing a course at university he applied for a job but was refused because they did not think he was fit enough to do the job. They did not take no for an answer and showed the boss all the grades he had achieved.
With the help they had received from the YMCA they knew that all employers were supposed to have 5% of their employees from the disabled sector. He has now been given a job.
Please pray fro a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Syria. Pray for the hundreds of thousands of refugees dispersed among neighbouring countries that their needs may be met and an end to the uncertainty they are now experiencing.
Next events:
1. Sponsored Cycle Ride September 7th. Proceeds shared between the church and the project
There are sponsor forms to add your support displayed in the Toll Gavel Church Centre
2. FASHION SHOW Wednesday September 25th 700 pm at M & Co. There will be a raffle and a cake stall. Contributions for these will be welcome. Tickets will be available from the Christian Aid team of John and Elaine, Ann Lynn, Jennifer Miles, Ann Bratley, David Powell.
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