In Pakistan, 6.2% of the population lives with some form of disability, yet this is a largely hidden and overlooked community, especially women with disabilities. Rarely seen in public, these women face compounded challenges, often spending their lives confined to the darker corners of their homes. They lack access to basic medical checkups, let alone specialized rehabilitation or development services.
Adding to the struggle is the pervasive stigma associated with disability, particularly for women. Many families view disability as a source of shame, which further isolates these women from society. This stigma, combined with the absence of essential support systems, perpetuates a cycle of invisibility and neglect.
The burden does not stop there. For families, and especially mothers, caring for a child or family member with disabilities is an overwhelming responsibility. Without supportive equipment like wheelchairs, crutches, or accessible washrooms, mothers are forced to physically carry their children for basic needs like bathing or using the toilet. This takes a toll on their physical and emotional well-being, leaving them crushed under the weight of caregiving without any support or hope for change.
At AWAKE, we are determined to transform this grim reality. Our programs focus on the rehabilitation, education, and empowerment of women and children with disabilities, as well as their families. We aim to bring independence and dignity to these individuals by:
Providing access to rehabilitation services and medical care.
Supplying essential support equipment like wheelchairs and crutches.
Offering education and skill-building opportunities for women with disabilities to achieve economic independence.
Reducing the caregiving burden on families through targeted support programs.
Supporting women with disabilities is about more than survival—it’s about helping them thrive as active, valued members of their communities. It’s about giving mothers the tools to care for their children with dignity and hope for a brighter future.
Your support can make this vision a reality. Together, we can bring light into the lives of those who have been left in the shadows for far too long. Join AWAKE in empowering women with disabilities to live with independence, purpose, and hope