Hope and Homes for Children Celebrates Christmas with Children with Disabilities in Kicukiro

By Xaverine Cyiza.

As Rwanda prepares for the joyous festivities of Christmas, ‘Hope and Homes for Children,’ a non-governmental organization, extended the spirit of Christmas to children with disabilities in Gahanga sector, Kicukiro district.

At the ‘Centre Inshuti z’Abakene,’ a school run by nuns under the Catholic Church on Friday, December 22, 2023, the organization organized a heartwarming event where children with disabilities, along with their parents, were embraced into the festive celebrations. Each family received an envelope containing funds for a Christmas dinner at their homes.

Sister Francine Mukamazera, Director of the Friends of the Poor Center, highlighted the significance of this event in showing these children that they are cherished and not alone in their journey.

“Our community endeavors to uplift all its members. We currently nurture 93 children here, and almost all, accompanied by their parents, partook in this Christmas dinner. Our collaboration with Hope and Homes for Children has spanned 5 years, beginning in 2018,” Sister Mukamazera shared.

She emphasized the commitment of the Kicukiro region in supporting these children, allocating Frw 3 million annually to the Centre Inshuti Z’abakene school.

Offering advice to parents who may feel shame or hesitation regarding children with disabilities, Sister Mukamazera encouraged them to seek support groups that foster healing and understanding among families facing similar challenges.

Karangwa Vidivi Immaculee, Deputy Country Director of Hope and Homes for Children, expressed gratitude to both divine providence and the dedication of the nuns at Friends of the Poor, recognizing their exceptional efforts in caring for these children.

“We deeply appreciate the parents of these children; their dedication is commendable. Many families welcome children with disabilities without understanding or even contemplate more drastic measures. We acknowledge their strength and resilience,” added Karangwa Vidivi Immaculee.

He concluded by acknowledging the administration’s continuous efforts to remind Rwandans that individuals with disabilities are entitled to the same rights as everyone else.

The representative of Persons with Disabilities in Kikuro district extended gratitude to Centre Inshuti Z’abakene school and Hope and Homes for Children for orchestrating this meaningful celebration for children with disabilities. They also appreciated the unwavering support of parents and the Rwandan Government’s commitment to valuing and supporting disabled children.

Eugene Beza, the official in charge of health and social welfare in Kicukiro district, expressed joy at witnessing inclusivity in the district’s Christmas celebrations, emphasizing the importance of fostering an inclusive environment. He pledged continuous support to the school and urged parents to embrace and allow children with disabilities to thrive and enjoy life to its fullest potential.

In conclusion, this heartwarming event demonstrates inclusivity and support for children with disabilities during the Christmas season.

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