Healthy Start: Supporting the Rights of Children with Disabilities in Armenia
The project was realized in between 2006-2015 in 3 phases with the financial support of DANIDA and in partnership with the Danish International organization “Mission East”. “Bridge of Hope” NGO and “’’Arabkir’ Children and Adolescent Health Institute” were the implementing partners of the project realized in three Marzes of Armenia: Armavir (1st stage), Gegharkunik (2nd stage), and Tavush (3rd stage). Its main aim was to develop and test models for early detection and intervention, as well as promote social inclusion for children with disabilities.
To achieve its objectives, the project established “Family and Children Support Centers”, “Community Support Active Groups” and “Parents to Parents” support groups in all rural communities of 3 Marzes. Additionally, rehabilitation centers were established in the cities of Armavir, Gavar, and Ijevan, under the supervision of the “’Arabkir Children and Adolescent Health Institute”.
As part of the project, the “National Disability Advocacy Coalition” was created and strengthened by bringing together DPOs and disability rights NGOs dedicated to addressing the human rights needs of people with disabilities (https://twitter.com/DAC_ARMENIA; https://www.ecoi.net/en/document/1112386.html)