Christian Response to Challenges Faced by Children with Disabilities

Abstract

Children with disabilities are among the most marginalized and excluded in the society. This study aimed at ascertaining the typologies of disabilities among CWD in Malindi Sub-County; challenges faced by CWD, parents and caregivers, how they mitigate them and the role of St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic Church in addressing the plight of CWD and its efficacy. A qualitative methodology was used to collect primary data. Structured and semi - structured interviews and focus group discussions were used in collecting data. The result indicated the existence of various types of disabilities among CWD in Malindi Sub County; including physical disability, mental disabilities, visual impairment, and hearing and speech impairments. Challenges faced by CWD included neglect, abuse by the able-bodied, inability to access assistive devices, mobility challenges, lack of awareness of rights, inability to access buildings and facilities and proper housing, inability to access specialized healthcare, inability to acquire employment, inability to socialize, and inability to access specialized education. Challenges faced by parents include joblessness and poverty, inability to access disability-specialized public amenities, marital and family breakups, stress, inability to access information, communication challenges, inability to access government funding, negative attitude by society, insecurity, negative impact of disability on siblings, and lack of formal training in disability issues. The study concluded that though the church had put in place some measures in addressing the plight of CWD, the efforts have not been efficient. To achieve efficacy, the study proposed that the church should set up full-fledged disability ministries; involve parents and the entire society in the planning and mainstreaming disability issues and build synergy and proper working relationships with government and other stakeholders.