Sri Arunodayam Brings “Rehabilitation on Wheels” Service to Rural Children with Intellectual Disabilities

A dream, years in the making, has finally become a reality! We are thrilled to introduce our mobile rehabilitation unit, designed specifically to serve children with intellectual disabilities (ID) in rural areas.

Since 2003, we have had the privilege of nurturing over 400 children with ID. However, our commitment extends beyond our facilities. Now, we're bringing new hope and healing directly to the doorstep of underprivileged children living with their families in rural communities where specialized care is often a distant dream.

When and Where

On June 29, 2024, our Rehab on Wheels program officially launched. The inauguration ceremony was graced by Mr. Sivaramakrishnan L., CSR Manager of Five Star Business Finance Ltd., Chennai, as the Chief Guest, and Mr. S. Srinivasan, District Differently Abled Welfare Officer, Thiruvallur, and Dr. D. Kathirvelu, District Differently Abled Welfare Officer, Chennai (North), as Guests of Honor. Our first stop: Ramasamudram Village, Tiruttani, Thiruvallur District.

Why

As part of our efforts to build a comprehensive support system in the region, we conducted a preliminary survey. This revealed that hundreds of local families with children with ID lacked access to quality rehabilitation services, which could significantly enhance their lives and future opportunities. Recognizing this critical need, we decided to offer rehabilitation expertise directly to the communities where traditional rehabilitation centers are scarce.

How

We engage family members as partners in their children's rehabilitation journey to create a supportive growth environment. Our free, personalized care is tailored to each child's home environment and challenges. By providing services in familiar surroundings with family involvement, we reduce stress and anxiety, enhancing the overall rehabilitation process.

Rather than focusing on quantity, we prioritize delivering authentic, one-on-one services that improve the children’s mobility and well-being, empowering them to live fulfilling lives despite their challenges. We start by serving 300 children, having strategically designed the program for expansion to neighboring villages and impacting hundreds more in years to come. We are also actively educating the Tiruttani communities about intellectual disabilities and the crucial significance of early intervention.

Aligned to UN SDGs

Over the years, Sri Arunodayam has established comprehensive rehabilitation programs that incorporate key performance indicators into its operations. This enables us to publicly report on our sustainability efforts. Our Rehab on Wheels program aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG3, SDG4, SDG5, SDG10, SDG11, and SDG17. By achieving these goals we demonstrate our commitment to operating sustainably, positively impacting the environment and community.

Meeting a genuine need

We are proud to offer our services free of charge to beneficiaries. However, sustaining this program requires ongoing support. If you want to make a difference, please consider sponsoring vital areas. Visit our program page.

Visit our website for the latest news and sponsorship options.

Sri Arunodayam is a secular organization with zero tolerance for discrimination against children regardless of religion, caste, race, ethnicity, disability or gender.