When you hear the word “leprosy,” you might think of skin patches, nerve damage, or isolation due to stigmatization. But did you know that leprosy can have a significant impact on a child’s ability to go to school? This is a critical issue, especially since leprosy is often found in communities in under-resourced, low-income areas.
What is the connection between leprosy and education? There are a few reasons why leprosy might hinder a child’s access to school:
- If a parent is ill with leprosy and can’t work, they might not be able to afford the tuition, uniform, or supplies required to send their child to school.
- In some situations, a child – especially a girl might have to give up school to care for a family member with leprosy or to take on household responsibilities while the parent is ill.
- A child with leprosy might be unable to attend school due to the disease – itself.
If a child can’t go to school, it severely limits their opportunities for the future. One disease can have far-reaching impacts, trapping families in a cycle of poverty.
We work with partners in Asia and Africa to strengthen healthcare systems, ensuring that so people affected by Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) can receive diagnosis and early treatment to minimize the long-term effects of leprosy. However, our work doesn’t stop there. We also focus on supporting people impacted by NTD in other crucial areas, such as mental health and education, so they have the best chance at reclaiming a vibrant, thriving life.
We help families access supplies, uniforms, and money for tuition to send their children to school. For $116, you can help fund a child’s education for a year.
For three years, Effect Hope donors helped Parul attend school through the Northwest Bangladesh Ultra Poverty Initiative Project (NUPIP).
“I received 2 sets of school dresses, useful textbooks, bag, shoes, umbrella and stationeries from NUPIP,” said Parul. “We are a poor family, it was very helpful for me to continue my study. I felt proud the day I went to school with my new dress and all my friends valued me.”
Education matters. You can transform the future for children like Parul by helping them go to school. Give today and change a child’s life forever!
