By Yussif Ibrahim
Konongo-Odumase (Ash), Dec. 6, GNA – The Asante-Akim Central Municipal Assembly has supported 55 Persons with Disability (PWDs) with various items procured from the Disability Fund.
The Fund which constitutes three per cent of the District Assemblies Common Fund is set aside for the welfare of PWDs in each district and the goal is to cushion such vulnerable people in society.
Through the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development, beneficiaries are selected from a pool of applications from P WDs with specific requests depending on the kind of assistance they need.
The requests are largely in the form of support to engage in income-generating activities, but a few also demand medical and educational support.
After reviewing a tall list of applications received, 55 persons were selected for the latest disbursement which was held at the forecourt of the Municipal Assembly at Konongo-Odumase.
The beneficiaries received various items including fufu pounding machines, deep freezers, charcoal among others.
Mr. Robert Yaw Kwakye, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), said the Fund was not only a financial resource, but a manifestation of a collective resolve to remove barriers and create an inclusive society.
“It symbolises our commitment to ensuring that persons with disabilities are not marginalised but instead given the tools and opportunities to contribute meaningfully to their families, communities and the nation as a whole,” the MCE observed.
He said the Fund was designed not merely as a form of charity but an investment in individuals who are fully capable of contributing to the socio-economic development of the Municipality.
“As we distribute these items, let us remember that our duty is not just to provide financial support, but to create a future where people with disabilities are empowered to pursue their dreams, secure employment, access quality education and live with dignity,” Mr. Kwakye noted.
He encouraged the beneficiaries to use the items wisely, saying that they were a stepping-stone to a brighter future.
Mr. Owusu Boadi, Municipal Director, Department of Social Welfare and Community Development, said school fees and medical bills of other beneficiaries had been paid and that it was the turn of those who wanted to be set up in business.
He said the disbursement of the Fund was to improve the livelihoods of beneficiaries and urged them to put the items to good use for sustainable livelihoods.
GNA