Soroti District – For years, many families in Tubur Sub-county have lived in silence, carrying the heavy burden of raising children with disabilities in communities where stigma, rejection, and isolation often deepen their pain.
Today, however, that silence was replaced not by struggle, but by tears of joy and renewed hope.
In a deeply moving outreach event, Action of Love International reached out to these families with more than just support. A total of 27 heifers were handed over to families of children living with disabilities, marking a powerful shift from despair to dignity and empowerment.
For many parents, this gesture meant far more than a donation. It was recognition, acceptance, and a reminder that they are not alone.
“Some people see disability as a curse,” said Joseph Eliau, General Secretary for Elder Persons in Soroti District and a community coordinator with the organization. “But today, we are seeing parents who have chosen love over rejection. These children are not curses—they are blessings.”
Behind every child present lies a story of struggle, sacrifice, and resilience. Some cannot walk, others cannot speak, and many live with chronic conditions such as sickle cell disease, requiring constant care and attention. Despite these challenges, their parents have remained strong.
“It is not easy,” Eliau added. “Transporting these children to hospitals, finding food, and meeting their daily needs takes everything. But these parents have not given up.”
The heifers represent far more than livestock. They are a source of nutrition through milk, a potential income-generating asset, and a symbol of dignity in a community where cattle ownership is associated with pride and stability.
As the animals were handed over, emotions filled the air. Some parents wept quietly, while others smiled through tears of relief and gratitude.
Jefferson Kandi, Executive Director of Action of Love International, described the moment as both heartbreaking and inspiring.
“My heart bleeds when I see what these families go through,” he said. “But I also see strength and courage. These children were given to us for a reason—we must not reject them; we must love them.”
He noted that the need in the community remains far greater than what was addressed during the event. Over 600 children are still in need of wheelchairs, and many are unable to attend school due to a lack of inclusive facilities.
“They are suffering in silence,” he said. “Some are locked indoors as caretakers struggle to survive. That must change.”
He further emphasized that the organization’s mission goes beyond mobility support.
“It is not just about helping them walk,” he explained. “It is about helping them live. That is why we are giving heifers—to improve livelihoods, fight malnutrition, and restore dignity.”
For families, the impact is immediate and deeply personal.
Nambuya Lorna said, “This is a blessing. My child now has something of their own. We feel proud.”
Aguti Suzan shared, “I have been buying milk for so long. Now we have hope. This changes everything.”
Elizabeth Orisa, a widow raising three children with disabilities, said, “I had no one. No support. But today, I feel seen and remembered. God is good.”
Okwii Francis, a caregiver to a three-year-old child unable to speak, eat, or move, added, “It is not easy, but today we feel strength again. This support means everything.”
