Through the Roof (Wheels for the World)
The busy year we had mapped out for our International programme with four wheels distributions has been overtaken by the Covid 19 pandemic. A wheels trip did go ahead to Uganda this spring and a combined Wheels for the World and Churches Inc trip went to Tanzania last autumn. The remaining Wheels for the World distributions planned for 2020 have been postponed until the situation becomes clearer.
This does not mean that we have stood still. We are working to continue our mission within the confines of the new ‘normal’ and are remaining in contact with our in-country partners as much as is possible. In July we had the first consignment of refurbished wheelchairs from the prison workshop in Manchester. They have a second batch to work on when they are able to do so, with Covid restrictions in place.
The Way Forward
We are working with some of our in-country partners to test the viability of setting up some new and exciting ‘Supported Distributions’. The idea is that we send the usual container full of wheelchairs and walking aids to some of our partners, who have the expertise to assess the needs of clients and to fit the chairs and aids to give them the mobility they need. They would also provide pastoral support to meet the spiritual needs of the wheelchair recipients and give them Bibles in their own language - as the team usually do. To support the in-country team, a team of experienced Wheels volunteer Physios and Techies would be on call via social media to buddy up with the in-country team and maintain the standards we set. This is exciting as it equips our in-country partners to take on more responsibility. We would still collect the Wheelchair recipients’ stories and be able to continue to run the Wheelchair sponsorship scheme.
Give thanks that:
We were able to complete the two distributions before Covid hit and that disabled people, their families and communities were given freedom, were able to build new friendships and encouraged in faith.
As a charity we have been able to continue our work, and/or plan to adapt and do things differently to meet our on-going mission.
Please pray for:
God’s wisdom and leading as we organise our new “supported Distribution” project.
Our partners, many of whom are not only struggling with meeting basic physical needs amidst the coronavirus pandemic, but have had to contend with extreme weather conditions as well.
Our Kenyan partner Pastor Davis and the rebuilding of their church and buildings after the floods.
All schools in Kenya that are now closed until next year.
Karen Goodridge and Gunn Fenn