Ecuador
An estimated 13% of the population of Ecuador suffers from some form of disability. For families living in poverty, the burden of caring for a disabled child can be overwhelming. Children and adults with disabilities face enormous economic and social barriers. While the rights of the disabled are enshrined in law in Ecuador, the government does not provide sufficient funding to ensure enforcement. As a result, disabled children and adults are frequently neglected or abandoned. Children are sometimes locked in dark rooms or empty dwellings for hours at a time.
Some communities in Ecuador continue to believe that a disability is the result of sin or inadequacy, and the disabled are mocked and abused, and subject to social stigma.
Since 2001, CH-Global has cooperated with Fundacion El Traingulo (Triangle Foundation) to help children with special needs find a nurturing and stimulating educational and therapeutic environment. Fundacion El Traingulo was established to provide a school program for children from 4 to 21 years of age. The organization was established by an energetic parents association, with leaders who wanted their children "to have the best opportunities" for education, social relationships , and happiness.
With the cooperation of CH-Global and other generous local supporters, Fundacion El Traingulo now has a beautiful special education school facility. Qualified teachers and staff can now address the physical, educational, spiritual and vocational needs of 62 children with special needs.
They have also established a fantastic rehabilitation centre for 20 children in Quito.
Their goal is to increase the number of children served, offer the highest quality education, and become a model organization for South America.
Fundacion El Traingulo conducted a Fundraising and Disability Awareness Festival in April 2005. Several hundred people attended the festival. The funds raised will support various disability related projects in Quito. Additional public awareness events are planned for December 2005.
The first summer camp program for nearly 35 children and young adults with exceptional needs was held in July 2005, just outside Quito near the city of Otavalo. This camp was a huge success and a valuable experience for the children, their parents, and the staff team. To request a complete report of ""Camp Fiesta San Pablo del Lago Summer Camp" contact CH..
Currently the Christian Horizons Conference Centre is working to include Ecuador as a destination for a CH vacation/excursion and a ministry opportunity for travelers with a developmental disability from Ontario. For more information contact Christian Horizons Supported Vacations.
Through the efforts of the staff person in Ecuador, supported by CH-Global, an agreement has been reached to offer Volunteer Internship Project for Salesiana University students at Fundacion El Traingulo.
The Fundacion El Traingulo has ambitious plans for the future, including a respite/recreational program, an early intervention program, and a support circle for parents of children with autism. They also plan to host educational conferences for professionals and students who work with people with special needs.
Contact Christian Horizons for more information.
