The World Health Organization estimates that one in 20 children in the world are disabled either physically, intellectually or both. Many of the children who have special needs worldwide are not registered at birth, and have no official or legal status–they may not be counted, but we know they count.
Special Hope Network is a faith-based organization working in Zambia, Africa to train families, caregivers, educators, and community leaders on how to provide quality care and inclusion to children with intellectual disabilities. We provide economic solutions to address the needs of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Zambian community. Click here to learn more!
Our Impact
Every child needs a place where they are loved, supported, and nurtured. SHN trains and supports parents and caretakers of kids with intellectual disabilities so that they can provide their children with a safe and loving space to develop. We provide them with the resources to encourage their child’s growth at home.
Every child should be healthy– body, soul and mind. SHN provides medical care for children with intellectual disabilities, often for the first time in their lives. Our health team sources difficult to find medicines and connects families with local doctors and clinics.
Every child should be challenged to learn. SHN runs the Resource Center, and supports schools, churches and orphanages caring for kids with intellectual disabilities. We offer supplies, education, and on-site guidance to any organizations providing for kids with special needs.
Connect with a family directly. Commit to giving regularly.
At Special Hope Network, we’ve created a unique Family Sponsorship program where each family receives direct benefits through specific programs designed to meet their needs. These programs take place in our Community Care Centers located in high-density, high-poverty compounds around the city of Lusaka, Zambia. The families and children that are sponsored by Special Hope Network directly benefit from your help… their families are supported and taught, and their lives and communities are impacted for good.
Follow us on Instagram!
World Report on Disability 2011. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2011. 2, Disability – a global picture. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
UNICEF. New York, New York: UNICEF; 2020. Birth Registration. Available from: https://data.unicef.org/topic/