As part of its commitment to improving the lives of persons with disabilities, the Social Welfare Department of the District recently conducted monitoring visitations to assess the impact of the Disability Common Fund grants on beneficiaries. This initiative aimed to ensure that the funds were effectively utilized and that recipients were experiencing tangible improvements in their quality of life.
The monitoring team, led by Madam Patience, visited several beneficiaries across the district, engaging with them to understand their experiences and challenges. The team assessed how the funds had been used, whether for business ventures, medical needs, or mobility aids, and provided additional guidance where necessary.
One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Kwame Osei, expressed his gratitude for the grant, which enabled him to expand his small grocery shop. “Before receiving the funds, I struggled to keep my business afloat, but with this support, I have been able to stock up and increase my earnings,” he shared. His story was a testament to the transformative potential of the Disability Common Fund when allocated and utilized effectively.
In another visit, the team met with Madam Abena Mensah, a visually impaired woman who had used her grant to purchase a sewing machine and establish a tailoring business. She explained how the support had not only improved her financial independence but also boosted her confidence. “I now have a sustainable source of income and no longer depend entirely on family support,” she said proudly.
While the visits highlighted many success stories, they also uncovered challenges faced by some beneficiaries. Some recipients encountered difficulties in managing their funds due to a lack of financial literacy, while others struggled with accessibility issues that hindered their ability to fully utilize the support provided. In response, the Social Welfare Department pledged to provide additional training in financial management and work with relevant authorities to improve accessibility for persons with disabilities.
The monitoring exercise reaffirmed the importance of continuous engagement and support beyond the disbursement of funds. The Social Welfare Department emphasised its commitment to ensuring that the Disability Common Fund serves its intended purpose of empowering persons with disabilities and promoting their economic and social inclusion.
At the end of the visitations, Madam Patience assured all beneficiaries that the department would continue to follow up on their progress and provide the necessary assistance to help them thrive. “Our goal is not just to give financial support but to ensure that it leads to meaningful and lasting change in the lives of those who receive it,” she concluded.
The initiative marks a crucial step in strengthening social welfare interventions and underscores the district’s dedication to fostering an inclusive society where every individual, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to succeed.
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