In Ukraine, parents of children with special needs are encouraged to hand their children over to state care. They are told their children are a burden on society. Children are sent to institutions where they are subjected to abuse and neglect. There is minimal support available to parents who fight to keep their children with them. Maya's Hope wants to help relieve some of the burden on these amazing parents and assist in keeping children with their families, where they belong.
"Hello! I am Vitalina, I am 7.5 years old. Due to a medical mistake during my birth resulting in damage to my brain, I became a child with special needs. I have a mom, dad and sister, but I am one of those children who cannot be left alone for a second. Cerebral palsy, epilepsy and a number of other diagnoses do not allow me to be like everyone else. I am sociable and I understand everything, but I am not able to speak (only single words). My parents dream is to take my hand and go shopping and to dance with me. But, alas, I myself do not even stand. I try to scoot around but due to my poor balance and frequent seizures, I often fall. Because of this, my face is often bruised or cut. This makes my mother very sad. But my smiles can cheer her up." (Written by Vitalina's mother)
Vitalina has been in our program for over a year and her health has improved. She has been able to receive in-home education and therapy which her family couldn't afford before they received assistance from Maya's Hope.
Vitalina is in need of diapers and medicines. Can you help?
Maya’s Hope helps disadvantaged children living in poverty and helps provide hope by instilling value and purpose in each child. We are celebrating 10 years of bringing hope to children around the world.