Empower caregivers of children with cerebral palsy

Introduction:

In this quarter, CFU continued its mission to empower caregivers of children with cerebral palsy (CP), with a refined focus on the role of play in the developmental outcomes of these children. This shift acknowledges the growing recognition of play as a fundamental activity for cognitive, motor, and emotional development in children with CP. Additionally, this quarter introduced training in jelly making for caregivers, providing them with another income-generating opportunity alongside ongoing financial literacy support. The jelly-making training was aimed at further diversifying income streams for caregivers while promoting self-reliance. Caregivers continued to receive ongoing support and guidance in managing their VSLAs, improving their financial literacy, and increasing their knowledge of cerebral palsy and its management.

Activities:

Training in Jelly Making:

The jelly-making training involved 15 caregivers from different VSLA groups. The training was designed to equip them with practical skills in producing high-quality jelly products that could be sold locally, providing an additional source of income.

The caregivers were trained on:

•  Ingredients and materials needed for jelly making, including:

Petroleum jelly

Paraffin oil

Beeswax

Fragrances and essential oils for scent

Shea butter and coconut oil for moisturizing properties

Coloring agents (optional)

Jars and packaging materials

•  Step-by-step process of jelly making, covering safety, hygiene, and product quality.
•  Marketing strategies, including packaging, pricing, and selling in local markets or through community networks.
•  Cost management to ensure profitability and sustainability of the jelly-making business.

Outcomes from jelly making training:

85% of participants were able to independently produce jelly by the end of the training.

70% of caregivers indicated they planned to start jelly-making businesses, either individually or in groups.

Some caregivers have already begun selling jelly in small quantities, with plans to scale up production with further support.

The jelly-making training resulted in three new VSLA groups planning to integrate jelly production into their income-generating activities.

Several caregivers expressed their satisfaction with the training, noting that the process was simple, cost-effective, and had significant potential for generating a stable income.

The caregivers actively participated in the hands-on sessions, learning how to use locally sourced ingredients to make jelly products that could be sold in their communities or at local markets.

Play-Based Interventions:

Sessions were conducted to introduce caregivers to the importance of play for children with cerebral palsy, focusing on improving motor skills, communication, and emotional bonding.

Caregivers were taught simple games and activities that could be done at home with their children, such as playing with blocks, interactive storytelling, and sensory play using everyday objects.

Emphasis was placed on how play helps in the physical, social, and cognitive development of children with cerebral palsy.

Financial Literacy & VSLA Support:

Continued training for VSLA groups on savings practices and financial management.

Provided ongoing support to monitor the progress of savings groups and ensure proper record-keeping.

Two additional VSLA groups opened accounts with local SACCOs, improving their financial security.

Ongoing Income-Generating Activities:

Caregivers continued their activities in liquid soap making, mushroom growing, and kitchen gardening.

CFU provided refresher sessions and linked caregivers to local markets for their products.

Jelly Making Training:

Achievements

Jelly Making Training:

25 caregivers trained in jelly making.

60% of caregivers have already begun small-scale production at home.

Positive feedback was received from caregivers who appreciated the practicality of the skill and its potential for income generation.

Play-Based Development:

75% of caregivers reported a better understanding of how play can aid their children’s development.

Children showed early signs of improved engagement, coordination, and interaction during playtime at home.

 Financial Literacy:

90% of caregivers continued to demonstrate improved financial literacy.

85% of VSLA members reported enhanced confidence in savings management.

Income-Generating Activities:

Two more caregivers successfully launched jelly-making businesses.

Mushroom-growing activities expanded, with several caregivers now regularly selling produce at local markets.

Lessons Learnt:

Play-Based Learning:

Play is a powerful tool for developmental outcomes, helping children with CP improve their motor skills and communication abilities.

Caregivers need continuous support and encouragement to implement play-based activities at home.

Hands-On Skills Training:

Jelly making proved to be an attractive income-generating activity, especially as it uses local ingredients and has low start-up costs.

There is a need to link caregivers with more local markets to expand their businesses.

Financial Literacy & Income Diversification:

Expanding financial literacy with income-generating skills like jelly making, liquid soap, and mushroom growing is leading to improved livelihoods among caregivers.

Continued monitoring and support are essential for sustaining the progress made in VSLAs and individual businesses.

Conclusion

This quarter has demonstrated significant progress in enhancing the livelihoods and caregiving capacity of parents of children with cerebral palsy. By focusing on play-based development and hands-on income-generating skills like jelly making, CFU continues to improve both the developmental outcomes of children and the financial stability of their caregivers. Going forward, CFU will build on these successes and ensure that the benefits of these programs are sustained and scaled across more communities.

• Photo_for_jelly_making.docx (DOCX)

Introduction:

This quarter, CFU continued its initiative to empower caregivers of children with cerebral palsy, focusing on improving their livelihoods through income-generating activities, financial literacy, and communication skills. The previous quarter focused on establishing Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) for caregivers. They received training in VSLA principles, methodology, and record-keeping. Additionally, CFU distributed saving boxes, passbooks, counter books, pens, and stamps to facilitate secure saving practices. Caregivers learned the benefits of meticulous record-keeping, loan tracking, and opening group bank accounts with reputable commercial banks. Recognizing the importance of collective action, caregivers enthusiastically agreed to start saving for improved livelihoods and enhanced care for their children with CP.

Activities:

• Conducted training sessions on liquid soap making and mushroom growing, providing 30 caregivers with alternative income sources.
• Guided group members in opening bank accounts and monitoring their finances.
• Provided ongoing support and guidance to VSLA groups.
• Conducted sessions on understanding cerebral palsy and its management.
• Introduced communication skills training, focusing on effective interaction with children with cerebral palsy.

Achievements and Outcomes:

• 90% of caregivers demonstrated improved financial literacy and savings strategies.
• 85% of caregivers reported increased confidence in managing their finances and participating in community-based savings and lending groups.
• 80% of caregivers showed improved understanding of cerebral palsy and its management.
• 75% of caregivers demonstrated improved communication skills, leading to enhanced relationships with their children.
• Two caregivers and one VSLA group successfully started their own liquid soap, kitchen gardening and mushroom growing businesses, generating income and employing others.
• VSLA groups continued to thrive, with members supporting each other and sharing knowledge.
• Two of the VSLA groups opened up an account with one commercial bank and the other with a local SACCO.

Lessons Learnt:

• Introducing new income-generating activities, like liquid soap making and mushroom growing, diversifies caregivers' revenue streams.
• Involving community leaders and healthcare professionals enhances program credibility and reach.
• Encouraging caregivers to share their experiences and knowledge fosters a sense of community and support.
• Communication skills training empowers caregivers to interact effectively with their children, leading to improved relationships and care.

Conclusion:

This quarter's progress demonstrates the effectiveness of our empowerment program for caregivers of children with cerebral palsy. By providing financial literacy, income-generating activities, communication skills, and support, we are improving the lives of caregivers and their families. We will continue to build upon this success, introducing new initiatives and expanding our reach to impact more lives.

SUCCESS STORY

Meet Nalongo Sarah, a resilient and determined woman who has overcome incredible challenges to build a better life for herself and her child with cerebral palsy. Nalongo is a member of Mukisa group

Nalongo's child, Emmanuel, was born with cerebral palsy, and her husband and grandparents rejected him, leaving Nalongo as the sole caregiver. Despite the challenges, Nalongo was determined to provide a loving and supportive environment for her child. However, finding work to support her family was difficult, and she struggled to make ends meet. Nalongo attended the training sessions on VSLAs. She actively participated in the new saving group and received training on mushroom growing.  With an initial capital of 50,000 UGX (approximately $13.50 USD), Nalongo started her mushroom growing business. She used this small amount to purchase mushroom seeds, substrates, and basic equipment. With the knowledge and materials provided, Nalongo started a small mushroom farm. Within three months, Nalongo's mushroom business flourished, generating 100,000 UGX (approximately $27 USD) in monthly income.  she not only improved her family's nutrition but also began selling surplus mushrooms, generating additional income, she was able to: Provide better care and support for her child, Emmanuel, Work from home, allowing her to care for Emmanuel while earning a living and build a sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing she is creating a better life for her family.

Testimonial:

"I was struggling to take care of my child, and I had no hope of finding work. But the VSLA group and mushroom growing changed everything. Now, I have a steady income, and I can provide for my child. I'm grateful for the support and guidance. I'm proud of what I've achieved, and I know I can continue to grow and succeed." - Nalongo Sarah