Institutional care of persons affected by leprosy (PALs)
Among persons affected by leprosy in Ossiomo are those who, due to their disability and /or their age, are unable to care for themselves. Though the generosity of our collaborators, these PALs are provided with comfortable accomodation (Weak Homes) and paid staff that care for them and ensure the clealiness of the environment. 17 of these PALs are presently cared for in the "Weak Homes".
Rehabilitation of PALs dependant
Persons affected by leprosy, being social beings, get married and establish their own families. Unfortunately due to poverty, they are often unable to provide the basic needs of these children including education and livelihood skills. 57 of their children are currently being sponsored in schools; 28 in secondary schools and 19 in tertiary institutions, and 10 for vocational skills acquisition. Between 2016 and 2018, some clients who acquired skills in tailoring, computer training and photography respectively have been set up with relevant equipment for work so that they can earn a living and contribute meaningfully to the upkeep of their parents and siblings
Provision of Medicines and welfare services to PALs and dependants
There area about 215 PALs and about 500 dependants in three settlements covered by the Sisters. Most of them strive to provide food for their families from subsistence agriculture and from the monthly welfare package given to them by the government. While medicines for the treatment of leprosy and tuberculosis are given free of charge by the government in collaboration with “German Leprosy and TB relief Association” (GLRA), local and overseas donations have helped to improve their general wellbeing through the provision of general medicines including antibiotics, and wound dressing materials. Those who undergo amputations and other forms of surgical operations are either given subsidies or fully sponsored by the Centre.
Production of Prosthesis (artificial legs) and orthosis
Due to the secondary effects of leprosy which include physical deformities and loss of limbs, the Centre produces prosthesis, orthosis, calipers, crutches, other walking aids and assistive devices for those who need them. The cost is generally subsidized and sometimes given free of charge to persons affected by leprosy who cannot afford to pay part of the cost.