Empowering Marginalized Children and Communities Through Dignity, Equity, and Inclusion
| Location: | Prayagraj (Naini), Uttar Pradesh, India |
| Timeline: | February 1, 2023 – December 31, 2027 |
| Partner: | The Leprosy Mission Trust India (TLMTI) |
| Reach: | 8,565 direct beneficiaries | 12,000 indirect |
Challenge
In Uttar Pradesh—the most populated and impoverished state in India—leprosy is still a harsh reality. Entire families, especially children, are trapped in cycles of stigma, disability, and poverty. Schools often exclude children affected by leprosy or disability. Community voices go unheard. Dignity is denied. Many of these children live in rural villages where even access to clean water and education can be out of reach. Leprosy is more than a disease—it’s a life sentence of social rejection unless we intervene early, boldly, and holistically.
Solution: The HEAL Model
HEAL (Health, Education, Advocacy, and Livelihoods) builds on the success of an earlier children’s project, CUFA (Children Unite For Action) by expanding it into a full life-cycle program—from childhood to adulthood—serving people affected by leprosy, disability, and other forms of exclusion.
This project is rooted in community transformation, and led by the people who live it—especially children.
What HEAL Does
- Supports inclusive education for children affected by leprosy and disability
- Provides mental health and disability support, plus follow-up care for leprosy
- Launches livelihood projects and self-help groups to ensure long-term income
- Forms Children’s Parliaments to build future leaders and community advocates
- Encourages participation—especially among women, people with disabilities, and the marginalized
- Advocates for human rights by working with local leaders, media, and elected officials
- Collects real data to inform future inclusive community development efforts
The Vision
By 2027, HEAL is committed to ensuring that children and adults affected by leprosy and disability:
- Are educated, employed, and self-reliant
- Are engaged in civic life and decision-making
- Are seen with dignity, not discrimination
