"The inherent right of all citizens, regardless of gender, to share in the rich blessings of a fulfilling life is a fundamental principle upheld by our society. Education, an invaluable gift of our nation, is open to all, including those who need additional support. Regardless of whether someone has a visual, hearing or other form of disability, we work tirelessly to provide them with a specialized education, even if it comes at a significant cost. We also refuse to abandon those among us who face the challenges of poverty and intellectual disability, as they are among the most vulnerable and marginalized. They are born into a difficult situation, often abandoned by their peers and unable to climb the pedestal of humanity on their own. It is our moral duty to stand up for them and spare no effort or means to ensure that they are not condemned to a life without dignity and compassion."

After the initial phase of tsunami response, the different level of sensitivity incites amiableAID to bring the interests of mentally disabled children and adults to the forefront.

Intellectual disability is deeply stigmatizing. The presence of such a family member cruelly deprives even the family of a socially satisfying and economically productive life. A large proportion of patients require continuous care and year-round medication.

Between the tsunami and pre-existing complex humanitarian emergencies, many mentally disabled children and adults who survived the tsunami had to cope with a range of limitations. Both the mentally disabled and their families often face scorn, ridicule, fear, and rejection because of lack of awareness of the rural society. These stigmatizing influences make life miserable for them and their families and contribute to their difficulties.

amiableAID is committed to helping people with intellectual disabilities grow up in their own families. However, a major concern for parents is the possibility that their disabled child will outlive them. The question “What will happen to my son or daughter when we are gone?” keeps bothering them as they and their child grow older. In addition, families often face the problem of having to arrange temporary care outside the family during times of crisis, family celebrations, travel, and other situations. There are also families who find themselves in a very difficult situation and for whom the care of their disabled member becomes impossible. Even families who are very committed and take good care of their disabled member feel the need to be relieved of care for a short time to avoid burnout.

Children with intellectual disabilities were supported in tsunami-affected areas through the foster home operated by amiableAID; very disadvantaged cases have been rendered with monthly payeeship assistance.

A group of trained volunteers from amiableAID assisted families with MR a range of educational materials. In addition to working closely with families, the project intervention has also raised awareness of the needs of these children and sensitized communities. The early intervention creates appropriate care and education facilities for the children with intellectual disabilities.

As an extension of its projects, amiableAID establishs a care home with research programs and a vocational training center for people with physical and intellectual challenge and old age home at Sothupparai, Periyakulam, Theni district.

The first step to recieve services is to contact amiableAID. Once contact is made, a process called “intake” begins.

During this process, amiableAID gathers information about the person requesting services, helps the person fill out application forms, and provides information about programs.

amiableAID plans and promotes many different service options based on the needs and choices of individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families. The goal is to give individuals the opportunity to determine their own lives as much as possible in the least restrictive environment.

amiableAID recognizes the importance of involving individuals and their family members in the planning, development and monitoring of the service system.