2020 Association of People with Disabilities Year End Letter
The cloud of the CoVid-19 Pandemic impacted many communities world wide in 2020.
For MEET volunteers it has meant the suspension of travel for in-person educational exchanges in Vietnam, and Pediatric surgeries. Many MEET volunteers have fortunately found time to maintain contacts virtually with our partners in Vietnam, despite the challenges for all of our teams engaged in healthcare during these difficult times.
Additionally, MEET Board can be applauded for agreeing to utilize $10,000 of donated funds that otherwise may have been spent on trip expenses, to contribute to Disability Research and Capacity Development (DRD), an NGO in multiple cities in Vietnam. During the first months of the CoVid -19 Pandemic in Vietnam, people with disabilities found their circumstances extremely dire.
The $10,000 donated by MEET (VN 261,176,880) assisted 158 people with severe disabilities in Dong Nai, Tay Ninh, Ho Chi Minh City, and Can Tho. Many of those who received funding, typically $50-65, provided them with capital sufficient to maintain a small business, selling herbs and vegetables for example. Empowering people with disabilities to contribute to their own well being and others is one of the missions of DRD.
In past years several MEET volunteers enjoyed being engaged in educational exchanges with the DRD. It was evident then and now how important this organization is to maintaining the dignity and worth of the individual, as well as contributing to their overall health and wellness.
MEET’s donation this year has resulted in immediate benefits to so many individuals, their families and communities throughout Vietnam. It is gratifying to contribute to such an important effort and honor MEETs mission to serve others globally.
