The short video sequence shows one of many successful projects of REHASWISS. Bennichan was affected by polio at the age of 2 years and was not able to walk ever since. He can only move with the help of a wheel chair. A project financed by REHASWISS enabled him to open his own book-binding unit which developed very successfully during the last few years. He has now even two employees, also with disabilites, to cope with the work.

 
 

On the one hand, the support by REHASWISS consists of specific, individual projects that are tailored to the requirements of the disabled person, for example, the supply of machinery or tools to carry out a trade or handicraft help to set up a small shop or the purchase of some farm animals etc. In order to enhance the sustainability of the project, REHASWISS has been financing the projects through microcredits since 2000, so that disabled people can undertake an employment of their liking. The project participants commit themselves to the full repayment of the microcredit in regular instalments within 3 years. This repayment is invested in a revolving fund which is managed by a self-help group (SHG) of disabled people under the supervision of the REHASWISS partner. In the first instance, the amount is used to finance new projects, i.e. to the advantage of new beneficiaries. If necessary, a part of the returned credit can also be used to give on-going support to exisiting projects.

On the other hand, REHASWISS also finances vocational trainings, i.e. secretarial courses, computer training, training in tailoring, weaving, radio- and TV-repairing, bicycle repairing etc. The beneficiaries are trained during some months in small workshops or they follow training on the job with a professional instructor. After completion of the training the beneficiaries receive a microcredit to start a small business or they are offered a job in a sheltered workshop. REHASWISS also provides equipment or a financial contribution to such workshops if they are training or employing disabled persons.

 

REHASWISS promotes the education of disabled people by supporting special schools and by supplying special school materials and paying teachers’ salaries.  REHASWISS also supports disabled students by offering scholarships.

 

REHASWISS offers financial help for the purchase of aids and equipment for people with auditory or visual disabilities and for the purchase and free delivery of artificial limbs, crutches and hand driven tricycles for deserving beneficiaries.