What We Do

Why children with polio and not any other disability or condition?

Polio is a “forgotten” disease. Many people believe polio has been eradicated but unfortunately that is not so. It may come as a surprise to many that, to date, the ONLY disease that mankind has eradicated is smallpox. By helping children with polio we want to be sure that they too are not forgotten.

What is your measure of success and what has been your biggest achievement?

We feel our efforts have been successful whenever when we see a child pursue higher education or vocational training with the single-minded determination to become independent in adult life. Our biggest achievement, to date, has been to give more than 200 girls a second chance in life by removing them from a vicious circle of  poverty, illiteracy, and destitution to one where each of them can realise her full potential.

Do children find they are better able to fit into mainstream society after receiving your help?

Absolutely! In a short span of 6 years (since 2004), we have enabled more than 70 students to attain university education and engage in gainful employment. Additionally, several hundred others have returned to their villages where as a result of their newly acquired education and vocational skills they have been readily embraced by their families and local communities.

How are you different from any other charitable organisation?

There are few charities fully dedicated to helping children with polio. Since its inception in 2002, the founding trustees of Polio Children have borne all administrative costs with the result that every penny donated has  gone directly to the children in need, and you, the donor, will bear ZERO of the running costs associated with this charity.