Support Families with Special Needs in Palestine

After 20 years of caring for Salem, his family reluctantly acknowledged that none of their efforts at home seemed to improve his life.  Born severely developmentally disabled, he still could do nothing for himself—feed himself, move from one place to another, express his wishes other than by shouting and thrashing at whomever was trying to help him.   He was uncomfortable with anyone other than family and made that clear by shouting and thrashing.  Though small in height, he had become too heavy for his mother to lift him.  

In desperate hope, two years ago, his family brought him to the Homes. Encouraged by staff, he became accustomed to being with others and doing exercises in a group.  He now finds group sessions involving listening  to music and playing simple games a special delight.

In his individual physical therapy sessions, Salem has developed improved strength in his muscles so he can now sit comfortably for longer periods.  He has discovered that he can move his wheelchair wherever he wishes to go.  No more being in bed and looking at the walls for hours on end!  Now he has discovered a new perspective—seeing the world from a standing position and is learning to walk!   No more tantrums of frustration.  Thanks to our speech therapist, his speech is becoming clearer so others can understand and respond to his requests.

His family is ecstatic!  

Your generosity has made this possible.  Please continue to help us to expand the abilities and enhance the lives of the 47 people entrusted to us. 

On their behalf, THANK YOU! 

Seven year old Hana lived with her impoverished parents and two younger sisters in a tent in an isolated, dusty part of the West Bank.  Born developmentally delayed, she could not speak, walk, or do anything for herself. Frequently, she lay outside on blanket, grabbing, and sometimes eating dirt.
 
Last December, caring Israelis visiting families in that area saw her and asked the Homes to help her. Initially totally withdrawn and overwhelmed, Hana now happily works with the physical and occupational therapists, participates in many activities, smiles! communicates her wishes clearly, tho not via speech, and can go independently! where she wishes. Since she came to us, the Homes have frequently sent pictures to her family to keep them appraised of her progress.
 
In March, to celebrate the Eid  with her family, Hana went home for several days. Her parents, were ecstatic over her progress—her ability to communicate, to feed herself with finger foods, to move her wheelchair, to brush her hair.  Never had they thought she could do so much.
 
Now back at the Homes, she happily works hard to achieve more skills — such as transferring in and out of her chair, to feed herself with a spoon, and someday, to walk.
 
YOUR support of the Homes has enabled Hana to achieve these triumphs. On her behalf, and behalf of the others whose lives you are enriching, our deepest thanks.