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WEE BOX, BIG Change 2012

Jagadeesh has improved his communication skills at APD, here he is signing with his dad (Photo: SCIAF)

WEE BOX, BIG Change returns and this Lent we are focusing on disability in India

Living with a disability can be difficult enough, but imagine having to deal with poverty at the same time.

This Lent, SCIAF shows just what your donations have done for two young disabled people living in Southern India. The little things you give up for Lent 2012 will play just as important a part in the future for thousands of people living with poverty across the world.

The Association of People with Disabilities (APD) is based in Bangalore, Southern India. SCIAF began funding them in 1997. SCIAF's work has helped people to benefit enormously from APD, as there is little state support available for disabled people in India.

APD provides an opportunity for disabled people to work their way out of poverty and build a future, incorporating a school with a split of 80% disabled and 20% able bodied students.

The two young disabled people featured on your WEE BOX have both had to overcome poverty. This has been all the harder for them due to their disabilities. APD has given them a future.

Jagadeesh, 18, was born deaf and he is training to become a metal worker with APD. The training he receives is improving his communication skills and giving him the confidence to prepare to be independent when he leaves.

Fauzia, 24, studied at APD and has gone on to become a teacher there. Fauzia has polio and was unable to walk when she first arrived at APD, the physiotherapy and opportunities she was given have made such a great difference to her.

Fauzia was a student at APD and has gone on to become a teacher thanks to your support (Photo: SCIAF)

Your support of SCIAF's WEE BOX, BIG Change campaign will help us reach people living in poverty in India and throughout the developing world. The donations you make will help deliver support where it is most needed, helping people take steps away from poverty and support themselves in the longer term.

We have videos, prayer resources and much more to come as we approach Lent. In the meantime, check out the actions below:

  • Order your WEE BOX here, by calling 0141 354 5555 or picking one up in your parish
  • Make a donation to our WEE BOX, BIG Change campaign online
  • Take our Lent campaign action calling for the Prime Minister to introduce a Robin Hood Tax
  • Join the fun with WEE BOX, BIG Trip
  • Tell us what you're giving up on Facebook or on Twitter using the #WEEBOXBIGTweet hashtag