By: Mpho Shelile
Maseru – Lesotho Post Bank (LPB) [U1] steps forward to lend a helping hand to women who care for children with cerebral palsy from Morate Cerebral Palsy Association (MCPA).
This gesture is in response to His Majesty King Letsie III’s Rata oa Heno initiative, which calls for collective efforts to uplift and support vulnerable groups within society.
MCPA is a registered association that was created with the aim to help mothers “release pain, attend to each other’s needs and open a room for them to console and uplift each other.”
LPB announced its commitment to supporting such mothers by donating essential supplies and resources needed to care for children with cerebral palsy. These supplies include nappies, food, and materials designed to enhance the quality of life for both the children and their caregivers.
Chief Sales Officer (CSO) of Lesotho Post Bank, Mathabo Tšehlo, in her remarks expresses the bank’s dedication to social responsibility and its alignment with the values promoted by the Rata oa Heno initiative.
“We are honoured to contribute to His Majesty’s vision of a compassionate and supportive society. At Lesotho Post Bank, we believe in the power of community and the importance of standing together to uplift those in need. Our support for these remarkable mothers is a testament to our commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of Basotho.”
Tšehlo states that when they received a heartfelt letter from the MCPA, requesting donations for children with cerebral palsy, it deeply moved them. She explained that the letter vividly described the daily struggles and challenges faced by these children and their families. The emotional appeal highlighted the dire need for resources and support to improve the quality of life for these vulnerable individuals.
Tšehlo and her team were profoundly touched by the association’s dedication and commitment to making a difference, which inspired LPB to take immediate action in providing the necessary assistance.
Itumeleng Mohasi, a mother of a child with cerebral palsy and founder of MCPA commends LPB for their generous contribution and emphasized the significance of such collaborative efforts in building a caring and inclusive nation. “I am deeply moved by Lesotho Post Bank’s response and their dedication to supporting us mothers and our children.”
One of the beneficiaries, Thato Moleko, shared her gratitude and how this support will make a meaningful difference in her daily life. “Caring for a child with cerebral palsy is a challenging journey, but knowing that there are organizations and people who care and are willing to help makes it a little easier. The supplies we received today will greatly assist us in providing better care for our children.”
“Taking care of a child with cerebral palsy is a full-time commitment, leaving us unable to pursue employment. While we do receive some financial assistance from social development programs, it’s inconsistent and insufficient. Not all children qualify for this aid, and for those who do, the amount provided barely covers the basic necessities. The financial strain is immense, as we need to cover medical expenses, specialized equipment, therapy sessions, and daily care needs. The support we receive is a start, but it’s far from adequate to ensure a decent quality of life for our children.”
She adds that their daily lives as mothers are incredibly challenging. Society’s lack of understanding and acceptance compounds their difficulties. “Stigma and discrimination run deep within Basotho culture, and our children are often met with unwelcoming attitudes,” she explains.
“We face judgment and isolation from our communities, which only adds to the emotional and physical burdens we carry. The lack of social support and empathy exacerbates our struggles, making it even harder to provide the care and attention our children need. We need more awareness and acceptance to create an inclusive environment where our children can thrive without facing prejudice.”
LPB’s involvement in the Rata oa Heno initiative is an example of how corporate social responsibility can create positive change and contribute to the betterment of society. By supporting the mothers of children with cerebral palsy, the bank not only addresses immediate needs but also promotes a culture of inclusivity and care that resonates with the essence of the initiative.
As the Rata oa Heno initiative continues to gain momentum, it serves as a powerful reminder that through collective effort and compassionate actions, we can create a more equitable and supportive society for all.
The Rata oa Heno initiative, championed by His Majesty King Letsie III, underscores the importance of compassion and community support in addressing the challenges faced by marginalized groups. The initiative aims to foster a culture of empathy and practical assistance, encouraging institutions and individuals alike to take an active role in improving the lives of those in need.
[U1]Abbreviation?