The City of Johannesburg is in need of assistive devices to aid 3 500 people living with disabilities to help enhance their well-being.
This according to MMC for Health and Social Development, Dr Mpho Phalatse, who said wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, prosthetic devices and other aids are needed.
“The number is increasing by the day, [and we are calling on] businesses and other organisations to partner with the City by donating assistive devices that will assist in closing the huge gap identified,” she said.
Phalatse said many persons with disabilities can reclaim their lives, returning to near normal functioning at work, home and in the community through these devices. “Investing in the lives of these often marginalised citizens is also an investment in our shared ecosystem as we empower more of our own to participate meaningfully in the growth and development of our City and its economy.”
The department says requests for these devices have been streaming in from individuals, organisations, and councillors alike.
“Though our existing partners have been invaluable in helping us meet this pressing need, the demand for assistive devices within the City of Johannesburg far outweighs what they are able to provide. There is an urgent need for us to increase the supply pool.”
The City’s Social Development Department has a People with Disabilities (PDWs) sub-unit that responds to and runs empowerment and support programmes targeting persons with disabilities. This unit provides assistive devices and managed to do so for 146 persons with disabilities in the last financial year. This was done with the help of different organisations.
Phalatse explained that persons with a disability present themselves to the City either voluntarily or on referral and are assessed. “They are then added to the sub-unit’s database wherein the type of disability is reflected and the urgency of the need highlighted.”
Donations can be dropped off at the People with Disabilities office at room R12820 on the second floor of the A Block at the Metro Centre at 158 Civic Boulevard in Braamfontein.
