Transforming children’s lives through the gift of mobility

WIZO South Africa has joined forces with an Israeli nongovernmental organisation, Wheelchairs of Hope, to bring 50 child-size wheelchairs into the country.

Tamar Lazarus of WIZO South Africa says: “We often take for granted the ability to move around in our homes and community – and with that the ability to learn, interact with others and participate in family life. We are so pleased that we are able to assist, for now, 50 children with mobility impairments, and give them these wheelchairs from Wheelchairs of Hope to enable them to lead active and fulfilling lives.”

Aimed at children aged five to nine, who are able to push themselves, these colourful wheelchairs are lightweight, yet robust enough to handle urban and country terrains. They were developed by specialist Israeli doctors and engineers from ALYN Hospital, Israel’s paediatric and adolescent rehabilitation centre, “to empower education through mobility”.

Recipients of the 50 wheelchairs are individual children and organisations countrywide identified by WIZO.

“The wheelchairs will have a lifelong impact on these kids. WIZO believes in this project and considers this donation of 50 wheelchairs to be the first, hopefully with many more to come,” adds Lazarus.

WIZO SA is seeking additional donors to become part of this excellent initiative. To donate or recommend a suitable recipient, contact 021 464 6700 ext 131; or email wizosa@ctjc.co.za.