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Approximately 1%
of the population in Nigeria has some physical disability. In
a city the size of jos, Nigeria there are about 7000 disabled
or cripples. Some were born with physical disabilities, some
are the result of injuries like accidents and burns and some
are even caused by parents wanting a child to grow up as a
beggar.
Because of the limited educational and
vocational training opportunities, the acceptance of a
crippled class and inadequate medical and rehabilitation
facilities, most Nigerians with physical handicaps grow up
learning to beg on the street corners to support themselves
and their families.
Because many of these street
cripples are young men, they often leave their families and
are amazingly mobile throughout the country. There are
cripples unions and recognized leaders in the crippled
community.
The Gidan Bege staff are now meeting
regularly with many of these young cripples to encourage them
and disciple them for Jesus Christ. Some face persecution and
are given temporary food and shelter at Gidan Bege. The
staff are also helping train them in wood carving and other
small industries to help them survive without resorting to
street begging.
Evangel Hospital can provide some
medical care and eventually will have a rehabilitation center
for surgery and brace construction for these unfortunate young
people. |
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