It Has It's Ups and Downs

LDS Charities is providing hope for disabled adults in Košice.

We have been involved with the Detsky Klub since we arrived to Slovakia.

LDS Charities will co-fund a lift which needs to be replaced in a facility for the disabled.

The center is for severely disabled persons, both physically and mentally, and many confined to wheelchairs. The three story building has a small elevator to lift disabled adults up and down to therapy sessions, exercise equipment, and group activity centers. The daily schedule is busy and clients are involved in worthwhile activities designed to help their disability.

A few years ago, President Uchtdorf came for a visit. He was impressed by the staff and clients who strive to improve physical and mental abilities.

The old elevator is worn out and stops without notice. It is tiny and holds only one wheelchair. The disabled client is trapped and sits alone in the dark. They holler and bang on the wall for someone to come to rescue them.

A maintenance person will climb through the attic and get the elevator to move. Some of the clients have been trapped for over 45 minutes and others report they've been trapped 20 times this month.

The elevator was built and installed by a Russian company no longer in business. The needed parts are obsolete and unavailable. The NGO raised the majority of the needed funds and asked LDS Charities to help contribute to the balance. Although a work contract has been signed, there is a delay before the work will begin. The clients and staff are eager for Spring when the new elevator will be installed. 

Our humanitarian replacement couple will have the opportunity to ensure the measurable outcome has been achieved before the project closes.