Through its humanitarian program "Haith Al-Insan", Tawakkol Karman Foundation has provided a dedicated transport bus for Irada Center for Intellectual Disabilities in Tarim, a city in Seiyun district, Hadramout governorate. This initiative aims to ease the daily struggle of children and their families in reaching the center.
For years, children enrolled at the Irada Center, operated by Himam Association for People with Special Needs, faced immense difficulties commuting to their classes. They relied on an old, poorly equipped vehicle with inadequate seating for their needs, often finding themselves in overcrowded conditions that added to their daily hardships.
A daily struggle for children and caregivers
Fantom Ba-Wazir, director of Irada Center, highlighted the challenges teachers faced while transporting the children:
"Educators at the center endure significant difficulties during the transportation process. These children require special care and patience, and at times, teachers even suffer injuries while assisting them on the journey."
Salem Ba-Shuaib, Secretary-General of Himam Association, elaborated on the importance of the center:
"Irada Center provides care and rehabilitation for children with various disabilities, including Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, muscular atrophy, hearing impairments, and learning difficulties."
However, the lack of a proper transport service has long been a major obstacle. Ba-Shuaib explained:
"We struggle with transportation because we do not have a vehicle suited for children with special needs. The available transport is overcrowded and unsuitable, which greatly affects the children's comfort and safety. These children deserve a means of transport that meets their needs."
He added:"It is unreasonable for a teacher to sit on a bus holding a child with special needs in her lap. A proper vehicle is essential. Having a suitable bus will reduce daily struggles, ease overcrowding, and lower costs for parents."
A life-changing intervention
Recognizing the urgent need, Tawakkol Karman Foundation stepped in to provide a dedicated bus, ensuring a safer, more comfortable journey for the children and relieving parents of financial burdens related to transportation.
The staff at Irada Center expressed their deep gratitude, emphasizing that this initiative will have a significant positive impact by allowing children to continue their education and rehabilitation without unnecessary obstacles.
With this new safe and accessible transport, children with disabilities in Tarim can now reach their center with dignity, comfort, and the support they deserve.
