Inclusion of persons with disabilities in Kosovo

Despite its rich historical heritage and captivatingly beautiful landscapes, Kosovo is the poorest country in Europe.

Arriving in the city of Peja in 1948, the Daughters of Charity work closely with families in extreme poverty, paying particular attention to the elderly and disabled.

Since 2003, they have been working at "the Center for Independent Life", a charitable organization that welcomes and supports people with physical and mental disabilities (Down syndrome, autism, mental retardation). They also protect their rights, regardless of their religious or ethnic background (Bosnian, Egyptian, Roma).

“The disabled people welcomed into our center come from very poor and socially isolated families. We provide for their basic needs in terms of health, food, and clothing. We also strive to socialize them by employing them as best we can in different places.” Sr. Adriana Palokaj

35 people, aged between 10 and 65, are cared for and supported so that they can achieve the greatest possible independence.

In a safe environment, they take part in mainly manual activities, but also educational ones (literacy, math). They are also taught about personal hygiene and hygiene practices.

“To entertain them and get them out of the center, we also organize recreational activities such as excursions and visits to various sites.” Sr. Adriana Palokaj

Project: Ensuring the center's operational needs are met so that it can continue to provide dignified accommodation for these residents with disabilities.

Free healthcare allows these families living in extreme poverty to entrust their loved ones to the care of others with the hope that they will become as independent as possible, enabling them to integrate into society and be accepted by others.

"Jim was very violent and caused a lot of problems within his family and in the neighborhood. We managed to work with him, help him tone down his violent tendencies, and turn him into a much better person. He is now very cautious and even looks after the other beneficiaries.

Besarta, who was illiterate, also committed violent acts that could have been harmful. The staff worked hard with her and managed to help her calm down and change her behavior. She can now write and is a very positive example in our organization. She even takes care of her parents, since she lives alone with them."Sr Adriana Palokaj

The Center for Independent Living manages to finance staff salaries, which constitute the bulk of its budget. 

However, the center receives very little assistance from the state and local authorities (40% of its resources), even though demand for services for people with disabilities is increasing every day and the center must continue to operate.

“We currently have a staff of 10 people, including psychologists, educators, a driver, a chef, a maintenance operator, a financial manager, and a program manager.” Sr. Adriana Palokaj

"But the cost of living is rising and putting a strain on our resources. It is becoming increasingly difficult for us to meet new admission requests, even when places become available.
We are struggling to cover the cost of basic necessities (food, hygiene, maintenance, electricity) and we also need school and educational materials to continue to stimulate the development of our residents. We also need to replace equipment that no longer works." Sr. Adriana Palokaj

With your support, the Daughters of Charity will continue to serve people with disabilities and those who are severely marginalized.

With them, thanks to you

If the project is funded beyond its target, the surplus donations received will be allocated to a similar project.