TAXILA: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints-Pakistan (LDS) in collaboration with Society for Special Persons (SSP) and Punjab Social Welfare Department distributed customised wheelchairs among the 300 differently-abled persons of Attock on Thursday.

The distribution of wheelchairs not only provided mobility to the recipients but also served as a significant step towards their empowerment and self-reliance. The event underscored the importance of collaborative efforts between governmental and non-governmental organisations in addressing the needs of marginalised communities.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints-Pakistan Director was also present on this occasion.

Founder President “Society for Special Persons” Zahida Amin while addressing the ceremony highlighted that according to a report, there are over 27 million people with disabilities in Pakistan.

She said that across the country over 10,000 wheelchairs were distributed free of cost to special persons.

Deputy commissioner Rao Atif Raza while addressing on this occasion extended warm welcome to the foreign distinguished guests and expressed her pleasure for joining hands with the INGOs for the well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development.

He said all religious minorities, including the Christians, were an integral part of the Pakistani society and were making a commendable contribution towards the progress of the country.

He emphasised that the government was committed to protecting the rights of minorities, in line with the vision of the Father of the Nation, Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah.

Additional deputy commissioner general Anil Saeed reiterated that the district administration shared the responsibility for the well-being of every special persons, and safeguarding their rights is a collective duty.

Speaking on this occasion, divisional Director Social Welfare Rawalpindi region Mohammad Shahd Rana highlighted the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of differently-abled individuals and extended gratitude to international NGO representatives for their vital contributions in ensuring the success of the program.

Saleem Khan, a polio victim, lauded the role of the district government by helping out people with disabilities with various organizations. Safia Begum, another participant also thanked the organisers for distributing a customised wheelchair for his special child.

Published in Dawn, January 10th, 2025