Funding needed to improve lives of disabled people
The Cooperative Orthotic & Prosthetic Enterprise Centre in Vientiane is continuing its work to raise money to improve conditions for disabled people in Laos, with over 1,000 people in need of the centre’s help. COPE Chief Executive Officer Ms Bounlanh Phayboun told Vientiane Times on September 14 that more than 1,000 disabled people are currently registered at the Medical Rehabilitation Centre on Khouvieng Road. Some 30 to 35 percent of those seeking help have been injured and disabled in accidents involving unexploded ordnance. Ms Bounlanh said Every year, we need US$500,000 to US$600,000 to fund our work. Some years we need US$800,000 to US$1,200,000 if we have to improve or build new facilities or offices. But we set funding targets and so far each year we have been able to meet those targets. Every year we receive money from international organisations and also sell products at the centre such as paper bags, cloth bags, clothing items, mugs and other items, she added.
